One can�t help but feel it�s time to make that job switch. The reasons could be varied: monetary, job satisfaction, or even a lousy boss. Whatever the reasons and however determined you are to move on, you still need to plan the transition well. It is important to leave for the right reasons.



Start off by listing the main problems with your current job. Is it possible to fix the problems? Do they have a solution? It�s a good idea to discuss these issues with a trusted colleague or your boss. They may be willing to support you once they learn about your aspirations.



Some top reasons for a job switch and what to do before taking the plunge.



If the problem is with the job profile, you will be less productive and will start deteriorating professionally as the job does not stimulate you any more. Ask yourself what it is in your profile that you dislike. For instance, if you are a creative person, a mechanical job profile will stifle you.



You need to ensure that your dislikes are not emotional in nature. So just because you dislike the people your work with does not mean it is time for a switch.



One you are clear what it is in your profile that needs changing, talk to your seniors to find out if there is a possibility that the issue will be reconsidered. If not, then it is probably time to move on.

If you want more responsibility in terms of career growth and don�t see any future in the current setup and the only way you can get to the next level is if your boss resigns which sounds remote possibility.



Then you need to talk to your boss and explore the option of moving to a new department with increased levels of responsibility. If it works out, make sure that you are not just being lured away by the promise of a fancy sounding designation.

Don�t be inhibited by starting afresh on a new assignment within the same organization. It will work out well for you if it allows you to grow professionally and financially.



Tired of working for someone else and have a great business idea that you feel can turn big then being your own boss appeals to you. In that case it might be a good reason to leave the job.

In the above case one needs to do his homework and just not get excited and rush into something. For the proposed business he should check up in detail about the market for services/products which are being considered for business. After that with the help of expertise if necessary he should have a solid business plan in place. Capital and Money resources for running the business must be well considered and opinion must be sought from professionals in the industry.



In your enthusiasm, don�t forget that you will be letting go of the security and comfort associated with a steady paycheck. So be ready for a rough ride. Consider the possibility of failure. Most new businesses fail or shut down in their very first year of operation you must be prepared for the alternative.



Erratic shifts, lots of out station travel, too much time consuming at work with no time for the family and expected to work seven days a week any or all of these could cause you to reconsider your priorities.



While that is alright, don�t live under the illusion that everything will fall into place with a new job. You may have to make some important lifestyle decisions to achieve a balance between work-life and personal time.



It�s a competitive world and you may have to take a cut in your salary to have more time at home or pursue other interests.

You could get fired as most organizations adopt a performance-based culture with little tolerance towards non-performers. Don�t be angry and waste time bad mouthing people and the organization. Instead, find out the real reason and move out.



You are about to get fired with the company on a downsizing mode. Then it�s better to walk out before you are left with no choice.



There are no foolproof ways to protect against job loss but you can certainly do the following.



Be calm and proactive, not reactive. Talk to your boss and find out if you can be relocated or be offered a different position. Storming into his office and shouting will not get you anywhere.



Stay positive. It can open new doors and opportunities that you may have ignored if not challenged. If downsizing has started, aggressively take more initiatives to get involved in the organization. Make yourself valuable so that losing you is not an easy option for the organization. However, continue your job search simultaneously.



The popular clich, �People don�t leave their organizations; they leave their boss�, holds true. You are just a part of a large community who feels the same way.



Here are some typical bad boss traits:



a) Does not respect employees.

b) Does not trust colleagues.

c) Does not take or give any feedback.

d) Assigns too many tasks and sets impossible deadlines.

e) Is often rude and intimidating.



Before resigning, try these options.



1. Communicate your issues and be specific. For example, just saying that you have too much work is vague. Instead, break down your tasks into the amount of time you will actually have to spend on each of them that week, and show your boss how many hours it will take. With a clear statement of required time, your boss is more likely to lessen your load to a reasonable level.



2. Make your boss feel good. This one is especially true if you boss has a big ego or needs to have his confidence constantly boosted. Work harder for him. If you have a good idea but think he will refuse, invest a little more time in convincing him.



3. Do a good job. This may sound obvious but when the quality of your work is good, everyone benefits including your boss. So make sure that you exceed your goals or targets, are punctual for all meetings, meet deadlines and are a brand ambassador for your company and project it well.



4. Anticipate your boss�s need. If you know that the boss�s boss likes graphs and analysis in a presentation, prepare them for your boss. You can say something like, �I know your superior likes graphical illustrations, so I thought these might make your presentation go a little smoother�. If your boss is at a loss of words in a meeting, you might want to chip in and give him the support he needs. Be supportive, invest in building a rapport.



5. There is no such thing as the perfect boss. But if you are willing to acknowledge his/her flaws and strong points, then you are on the right track. Know your worth and if all else fails, don�t feel dejected. It is time for you to move on.