Is the grass really greener somewhere else? It can be tempting to leave your job when things aren’t going well. Although you may have a vision of what it would be like to work someplace else, you need to ask questions and take the time to make sure your decision to accept a new job is based on as much information possible. Remember, “the grass is always greener” principle applies to changing jobs.
I never will forget a manager who was torn between leaving his job and accepting a position in a rapidly growing company. The new position reported to a subject-matter expert who would be a strong mentor in a new field. He was so enthusiastic about his new role that he didn’t clarify expectations or ask questions about the employer’s goals and timelines.
Less than six months into the new job he was sorry he’d made the move. The employer expected him to generate significant revenue and the industry expert he had hoped would mentor him worked offsite and wasn’t available. He realized he would have declined the offer if he had known these things.
He started a new job search knowing he needed to ask questions that would clarify his expectations and those of the potential employer.
When you’re interviewing, pay attention to what isn’t being said as well as what is being said. Make note of an absence of positive remarks or clarity about your role, and ask questions that will help you get a better picture of the position.
There are several things you can do to make sure you not influenced by “the grass is greener” principle.
Find out what results will be expected of you during the first six months. Ask “How would a person in this role know they were succeeding six months from now”? The answer will give you an idea of how realistic the employer’s expectations are.
Ask how your performance will be measured.
Ask your future boss what communication style they prefer. Do they like weekly feedback or as needed?
Most employers expect you to know how to do your job. The success in a new role often comes down to two or three key objectives, and you need to know what those are before you make a career move.
Don’t accept a position based solely on your desire to leave – get the facts.
Have you ever wondered if you might regret accepting a job after the fact?
