A growing number of employees in the Middle East and North Africa region are eager to make significant career moves, according to PwC’s 2024 Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey. Over 70% are gunning for promotions, while 67%  seek salary increases. And almost half are considering jumping ship altogether.

With such a large portion of the workforce looking for new opportunities, it’s clear that job satisfaction and career growth are top priorities. But how do you know when it’s time to call it quits?

The decision to quit a job is never easy. Between financial security and personal fulfillment, the balance can be delicate. But there are telltale signs that it might be time to move on. From dwindling job satisfaction to stagnant career growth, recognizing these red flags can be the first step toward a more fulfilling professional life.

Emma Burdett, the CEO of Women In Leadership Deliver (WILD), says there are telltale signs that an employee might stagnate in their current role. “This can be seen in the overall employee performance. Also, things like attitude and happiness levels. Are they showing apathy or boredom?”

Twenty-six-year-old Angela Michael, has been working in media and marketing for four years. She says the primary reason she would leave a job is if she saw no opportunities for growth. “If a company isn’t welcoming new ideas, valuing their employees, or stifling the growth of their employees, then it wouldn’t be a place I would stay in.”

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Burdett says there are factors to consider before leaving a job, especially when you don’t have another one lined up. “Know that more often than not, the grass isn’t greener.”

She says employees must make sure they’re leaving for the right reasons. “Do not be in a rush to quit. Stay as long as you can without jeopardizing your reputation.” 

Burdett also warns against impulsive quits based on personal conflicts. “We all get triggered by people in the workplace. We can make quick decisions to leave based on a toxic colleague. If you love your role, find solutions to make it work.”

She notes that it’s wise to clearly understand the pros and cons of your current role before making any decisions. You might end up joining another company with a similar culture.

It’s also important to ensure you have another job lined up or at least six months of savings. The job market is competitive, and being unemployed for over six months can negatively impact your CV, as employers generally dislike significant employment gaps.

“Have a clear plan, and if you want to quit to start your own venture, I will suggest building a side hustle first. Then, when it is self-sustaining, leave the job to focus on this full time.”

COMPANY CULTURE

PwC’s reports demonstrate how employees value companies that maintain a positive work culture, particularly highlighting collaboration and flexibility as two of the most important aspects. 

About 87% of employees emphasize the importance of collaboration, and 81% value flexibility in their roles. These figures surpass global averages of 63% and 65%, respectively, reflecting a regional culture that values teamwork and adaptable work arrangements.  

Company culture is essential for keeping employees motivated and committed to staying with a company. Michael recalls her experience of toxic company culture and how it was one of the main reasons she wanted to leave.

“I have stayed too long in a place that was toxic and where I was being overworked to the point of exhaustion and experiencing regular breakdowns,” says Michael. She adds that if a company consistently fails to appreciate or provide criticism that isn’t constructive, it may be time to move on. “If a company isn’t appreciating you enough to keep you and work on your concerns, you’ll find another company that values you for what you can bring to the table.”

Promotions and other incentives are vital for making employees feel valued and encouraging them to remain with a company. For Michael, the prospect of a promotion and the lack of a better opportunity initially prevented her from quitting. However, she later realized that the promotion promises were false.

“More often than not, you find yourself in a place where you know you’ve stayed longer than you should have but lack another viable job opportunity.”

FINDING THE RIGHT JOB

Michael says she stays informed on her industry and potential career paths by staying active on social media. “Make sure to be kept in the loop of what your ideal jobs require and always be willing to tailor your skills accordingly.”

Burdett says doing your research is crucial. “Check out the reviews on Glassdoor of what previous employees say about the company, identify the company values, and always ask questions in the interview about things that are important to you.”

Burdett emphasized the importance of aligning an organization’s values and priorities with yours. Questions on DEI policies, gender inequality, work culture, and conditions are all worth asking.