Should you leave a job without having a new one?

by | 13.09.24

Deciding on whether to leave a job without having a new one lined up is a personal decision that depends on many factors.  You need to evaluate your situation before you take this step.  Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

Financial stability

Leaving a job without having a new one can have financial implications. Assess your financial situation and determine if you have enough savings to cover your expenses during the job search period. Consider factors such as rent/mortgage, bills and other financial obligations.

Job market and opportunities

Research the current job market and evaluate the availability of opportunities in your field. If the job market is competitive or there are limited job openings, it may be wise to secure a new job before leaving your current one.

Career goals and growth

Consider your long-term career goals and whether staying in your current job aligns with those goals. If your current job is hindering your professional growth or not providing the opportunities you seek, it may be worth considering a change, even without a new job in hand.

Work environment and well-being

Assess the impact of your current job on your overall well-being. If the work environment is toxic, causing excessive stress, or negatively affecting your mental and physical health, it may be necessary to prioritize your well-being and leave the job, even without a new one to go to.

Support system and resources

Evaluate the support system you have in place, such as family, friends, or professional networks. Having a strong support system can provide emotional and practical assistance during the job search process.

Plan and preparation

If you decide to leave your job without having a new one, create a plan and set realistic goals for your job search. Update your CV, network with professionals in your industry and actively search for job opportunities. Having a structured approach can increase your chances of finding a new job quickly.

Potential challenges

Leaving a job without a new one can come with challenges, such as explaining the employment gap to future employers. Be prepared to address this during interviews and emphasize the reasons for your decision.

So before you make the decision to leave a role without another role to go to carefully weigh up these factors and consider the potential risks and benefits before making a decision.  If you do decide to leave your job without having a new to go to one you must ensure you have a clear plan on how you are going to secure a new role, never jump out of the frying pan into the fire without being confident you will get a new job in the next month or so otherwise you could risk ruining your CV.

Good luck