3 tips for switching jobs

Over the course of the last 18 months or so, the engineering industry has been a bit unpredictable due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many engineers chose to switch jobs or even change career paths due to an unstable job market and layoffs. Others decided to switch jobs for a higher salary, better benefits, or to hone in on their area of interest.

Whatever the reason, switching jobs can be a time-consuming and draining process. Not only do you have to balance your normal 40-hour workweek, but you also have to make time to fill out job applications, update your resume, and show up to virtual or in-person interviews.

If you’re struggling to juggle all of these responsibilities, follow these tips:

1. Visualize your dream position

If you’re in a position that’s not a great fit, it may be difficult to start visualizing yourself at the perfect job. But it’s important to try anyway.

Do you want to be a manager? A specialist? Do you want to work full time? Part-time? What do you prefer the company culture to be like?

Write down a list of items that would make your position worth your time each week. Once you’ve written those down, visualize yourself in that position and notice how it feels.

2. Develop your skills

If changing jobs takes longer than you expected, and you have a bit of downtime, use that time to learn a new skill or develop a current one. Organizations value employees who can learn quickly and take feedback well, so it’s never a bad idea to highlight your passion for learning and professional growth on your resume.

While you’re at your current company, take advantage of the opportunity to attend conferences, webinars, and network with others in your field. You never know who you could run into, or what doors will open if you keep an open mind. There’s also a variety of online resources from ACEC that can help you develop your skills faster.

3. Have grace when leaving

If you’re switching jobs because you’re unhappy in your current role, it’s normal to feel some relief. Still, try your best to maintain good relationships with your current boss and co-workers. If you leave on bad terms it can hurt your career in the long run. After you leave, try to keep in touch with your co-workers through LinkedIn and other networking opportunities. Who knows, you might even see them at the next ACEC Utah event or rub shoulders at the Engineering in Excellence Awards.

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks like this to better your career path. In the meantime, if you have questions about an ACEC Utah membership, please visit our website.