Most experts seem to agree that it generally takes at least one year to make yourself marketable to managers the next rung up on the career ladder.
Many graduates discover that the thought of a permanent desk with their name on it feels like a big commitment as they prepare for their first job. If this is you or you suspect it might be you in the coming years, read on for some advice on how to think about your first job and how long you’ll stay there for.
How Long Should You Stay at Your First Job AFTER College? [5 Factors to Consider]
Factors that determine how long you should stay at your first job
It may be time to review the factors that determine whether or not it’s time to leave your first job if you’ve been there for a few years. Use the following list to decide whether it’s time to look for a new challenge:
How long should you stay at your first job?
There is no set period of time that you must remain at your first job. Several factors are affected by the position’s specifics, the sector you work in, and your career goals. Generally speaking, you should remain in your position long enough to establish a solid foundation in your industry and to develop your work experience and skills, but not for too long that your position ceases to be challenging. For the majority of people, that will probably be between two and five years, but depending on individual factors, that number could be higher or lower.
Signs it’s time to look for a new job
Look for these indicators that you should start applying for new positions if you’ve thought about whether to stay at your current job or move on and you think it might be time to do so:
Its not your dream job
Your first job out of college or high school is frequently an entry-level position, which is probably not what you had in mind. If you believe you’ve achieved all of your professional goals in this role and have other aspirations, it’s probably time to move on.
Youve put in the time
Employees used to spend the majority of their careers with one company, rarely changing jobs, and simply moving up the ranks. Recently, however, the trend has changed, with many people now changing jobs every few years. If you’ve held your position for a while and believe you could leave with a good reputation and warm wishes, it might be time to move on.
Youre bored at work
To help you advance your abilities and develop your skills, your job should regularly present you with fresh challenges. A new position may provide you with the opportunity for advancement you seek if you are frequently bored at work and don’t feel challenged by your tasks and responsibilities.
Youve reached your goals
When beginning a new job, many people set both short- and long-term goals for themselves. If you’ve achieved all the goals you wanted to achieve and that you were capable of achieving in your current position, it’s time to look for a new position that will allow you to push yourself to new heights.
Theres no promotion opportunity
For entry-level employees, there may be a clear promotion path in some organizations. Consider searching outside the company for more senior positions if your current position does not offer you any opportunities for advancement there.
Youre exhausted
Sometimes the strain of carrying out the same tasks for years on end can negatively impact your physical and mental health. If you frequently feel exhausted, either physically or mentally, taking on a new position may give you new perspective and make you feel more energised.
Your skills dont align with your salary
If you’ve worked hard to advance your education and gain experience on the job, eventually your skills won’t match your pay. If there are no opportunities to increase your salary within the company, your best course of action is to apply for jobs with other companies that offer better pay.
Tips for getting the most from your new job
Making a plan to make the most of your time at your new job will help you advance your career after deciding to leave your current position and start a new one with a different company. Make the most of your new position by using the following advice:
FAQ
How long do people usually stay in their first job?
36% felt four to six months was appropriate. One in three respondents (32%) believed that an entry-level position should only last one to three months.
Is 1 year too soon to leave a job?
There’s really no one answer, according to Baker. Nothing mandates that you remain employed for any longer than is necessary. except for the voice inside your head, ” she says. But before switching jobs, it’s crucial to maximize your current position.
Can I leave my first job after 6 months?
After six months, you could leave if you get a job offer from another company that promises you better pay and a more prestigious position. Check to see if the company you currently work for can offer you a comparable position and pay if not, and if they can’t, don’t feel bad about accepting another job offer.
Can I leave my first job after 3 months?
It is acceptable manners to leave a job after a few months; however, avoid making it a habit. One brief stint on your resume is not a big deal; however, if this behavior appears to be ongoing or is indicative of your inability to evaluate a company, then there may be a problem.
