We’ve all been there. You’ve been with your company for x number of years. Maybe you’ve progressed as far as you can. Maybe you’ve hit your income potential. Maybe the work-life balance isn’t working. No matter the “maybe” you’re considering, it may be time to make a career transition.

Is it Time to Make a Change?

The first step in any career transition is making the decision that a change is necessary. Look at your career and your life. Are you happy with where you stand? Do you enjoy your work? Do you like the culture in your company? Do you like the people you work with? Does your commute and hours work with your home life? Is your income workable with your lifestyle?

As you ask yourself these questions, make a pro/con list. Write it out so you can see it in black and white. If the cons outweigh the pros, it may be time to look at making a change.

What was the Final Straw?

Looking at that pro/con list, what was the item that weighed most heavily? Was it your income? Was it your co-workers or boss? Was it your commute? Consider that factor and apply that at the forefront of your new career search. If it was income, look for a job or career opportunity that will fit the requirements you need most. Do you need a higher income? Do you need an unlimited cap? Do you need a strong base? Do you need higher commission levels? If flexibility in your hours weighed more heavily, then look for a career in which you can set your own hours.

Saying Goodbye

Once you’ve found that new position that fits the needs, it’s time to finish your career transition. As everyone knows, make sure you don’t burn any bridges on your way out. Be cordial. Make sure you give appropriate notice. Comply with any exit interviews or plans that the company has in place. Reach out to any co-workers or supervisors a few weeks after the transition to reconnect and maintain the contact. Saying goodbye to your position shouldn’t mean saying goodbye to the connections you made. You never know when that contact may benefit you in your new career or in future endeavors.