Jumping the Fence: When Should You Quit Your Job in Animal Health?

Even in a closely-knit industry like animal health, jobs don’t last forever. Companies change focus. Great managers move on. Your own career goals may change. Sometimes, it’s just time

Changing jobs brings upheaval. How do you know when the fishing is done, and it’s time to cut bait?

Time to spread your wings

After several years in the same job, you might find that you are ready for a new challenge. Across industries, most people stay in the same job for about 4 years. Managers and older workers tend to be in the same jobs somewhat longer than younger workers.

When your current company can’t offer you the opportunity to grow further, it’s time to move to greener pastures. Looking for a new animal health job, whether in one of the big names in animal health or a smaller firm, could be the right move.

Life happens

Our lives are much bigger than our jobs. Working in the animal health industry is no exception. A partner’s or spouse’s job change, family member’s illness, the birth or adoption of a child, or wanting a different relationship between work and the rest of your life can all inspire you to look for something new. Your current job in animal health might not be adaptable to your new life circumstances. Don’t stay in a job that doesn’t fit your needs; look for a better fit in a new function or a new company.

Seeing eye to eye

Career progression is most likely to occur when you, your manager, and your company all have the same view of your talents and potential. If you repeatedly miss out on exciting projects or promotions, especially without clear feedback on why, it may be time to find a company that sees your potential the way you do. Before you start your search, a clear and objective assessment of your talents with the team at Its All About People can help you find the right job and company so your career can soar.

Values mismatch

New management often signals a change in cultural as well as strategic direction. Adjusting to the new culture can be difficult, particularly if you have been with a company for a long time. People who value independence may feel constrained by a new, tighter set of rules. Those who value the pursuit of knowledge could be put off by a new focus on results.

If your company’s new culture doesn’t mesh with your values, you may be happier changing to a more amenable environment, even if it means leaving a familiar team.

An exciting opportunity appears

When the right role to advance your animal health career presents itself, grab it! Moving to a new company may be the best way to meet your career goals. Think about what you want for your next animal health job and where you can find it, even if that means a new type of role.

Leave good memories

Job changes are a part of any animal health career. In our recent survey, 71% of respondents were open to or actively looking for a new job.  The time will come when you’re ready to move on, too.

When you do move on, how you leave is as important as why you leave. Always behave professionally when changing jobs in animal health. The colleagues you leave behind could become colleagues again one day. Make sure you they remember you positively.

---

When you’re ready for the next step in your animal health career, come to Animal Health Jobs. As the premier jobs marketplace in animal health, we have job opportunities with animal health industry leaders and disruptors. Post your resume and browse job openings to find your next great animal heath job.