Human Resources 101

If so, you’re with the majority. According to an Accountemps survey, almost half of executives polled said their spouse or significant other is their first source for advice when evaluating a potential job change. The national poll included responses from 150 senior executives—including those from human resources, finance and marketing departments—with the nation’s 1,000 largest companies.

Executives were asked, “If you were considering changing jobs, which one of the following people would you most likely approach first for advice when evaluating a potential job change?” Their responses:

“The advice of mentors, colleagues and other confidants helps when weighing the pros and cons of a career transition, but a job change has personal and family implications,” said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting For Dummies. “A spouse or significant other is not only familiar with a partner’s overall priorities and motivators, but also has a stake in the outcome of his or her career decisions.”

Along with seeking advice from family, friends and mentors, Accountemps advises professionals to consider the following questions before making a career transition:

• Is the grass really greener? If you once were satisfied in your present job, what changed? Will the new position be more fulfilling, or would you be better off trying to enhance your current role so it includes more of the duties you enjoy?
• Will you have room to grow? When considering a new position, ask about advancement potential. If a career dead-end is prompting your desire to make a change, you want to be sure you don’t end up in the same situation at a different company in a year or two.
• Have you done your homework? Is the firm in good financial condition? Have you researched the industry, and the company’s mission and values? Try to determine if the new work environment will appeal to you.