Brandon W. Jones

In today’s poor economic climate, many companies are doing all they can to stay afloat. Companies are looking for a leader with a vision. They want a leader to take them from a survival state to a strong and vibrant state where they flourish. The leaders that can do this are in high demand. Struggling companies are trying to attract these leaders away from their existing companies. In addition to struggling companies, some successful companies are trying to upgrade with a new leader to stay ahead of the competition.

As a leader, how do you know how long to stay with your current company when other companies are trying to get you to join them? When you are in a poor environment it is easy to leave your current company for a better one, but when you are in a good environment, the decision is a little tougher. The following factors should be considered prior to leaving your current company:

Work Environment. The work environment is your working atmosphere which includes the people you work with, the management you work under, the stress level from everyone around you, etc. Prior to leaving your current company, you should consider the environment you will leave to go to the new company or organization. Will you be able to work well in the new environment? Will you be able to make choices you need to make to do your job? Is there a lot of contention in either your existing or the new environment? You must consider all aspects of the work environment prior to leaving you current company or organization.

Stability. Each company has its own level of stability. Some companies are very stable and have little chance of going out of business while other companies are on the brink of failure. What type of stability do you want? Are you okay with not knowing whether you will have a job next week or next year? Do you require a strong company with limited chance of failure?

Compensation. How much do you get paid and how much will you get paid? In addition to pay scale, what benefits, stock options, pension plan, etc. will you have? Will you have a company vehicle? Your pay check may not represent your full pay scale. Prior to leaving your current company you must be fully aware of the compensation.

Risk and Reward. With every position, there are inherent risks and rewards. As leaders, you should identify the rewards you will receive and the associated risks. If the new company expects you to give up stability, they should give you additional compensation. If not, is the risk worth the reward?

When you decide on a big change in your life, you should consider the choices available and the associated consequences. As you consider all options, you will make better informed choices.

What factors do you consider when making life-changing decisions? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!