When we talk to candidates, we always ask why they want to leave their current job (or why they left). It is an important question for a new employer to at least know.
Sometimes candidates will tell me that they like their existing company and role; they just feel undervalued financially.
‘Have you discussed your salary with your boss?’ I will ask.
‘No’ is often the reply
‘Why not?’ is my natural answer.
It can be because they feel awkward doing so; perhaps fear they know the answer already (their workplace hasn’t raised salary before for others when asked, so why would they do it for me?), or worried how that may look…but you are already looking at the job market anyway, so why not just ask.
We spend so much time at work that we surely want to work in an environment which is honest, supportive and open to employees’ thoughts, communication and ideas?
It is always good to talk and be honest and open.
If lines of communication are good, it could resolve your concerns before you decide to look elsewhere.
If you always seem happy at work, your boss may not be aware of your worries.
Is there a good time to ask?
I would definitely recommend setting some time aside in the diary with your boss to discuss rather than in passing at the coffee machine or in a social environment.
I know you may feel more comfortable in a less formal setting, but this is important.
Do plan and think of questions, examples and reasons ahead of any meeting and do write them down (This is something I wish I had been confident enough to have done in the past).
Some might say a good time is after positive news at work, like a big new client win, or on completing a successful project or hitting goals/targets.
A performance review is a natural moment. If you know when budgets are set or the fiscal year starts, prepare for then if it is soon.
If the company is going through layoffs, a hiring freeze, or financial stress it may not be a good time.
No recruiter / new employer likes to go through a process ending with a counteroffer situation, and you staying put.
Remember, this is not a confrontation. If communication is honest and open it could resolve your concerns before you decide to look elsewhere.
It is good to talk!
