Knowing when to make a career move isn’t always straightforward. Many people stay in roles longer than they should, not because the role is right for them, but because change can be scary.

If you’ve been quietly questioning whether it’s time for something new, these signs may help bring some clarity.

1. Your Role Has Stopped Evolving

Most roles should grow as you do. If your responsibilities, learning, or exposure haven’t changed in a long time, it can be a sign that your development has stalled. 

If you’re no longer being challenged or trusted with greater responsibility, it may be worth asking whether your current environment can support your long-term career goals. Because let's be real, who wants to be feeling bored everyday?

2. Progress Promises Never Materialise

Many people are told it's best that are should 'be patient', whether they might be about a promotion, pay progression, or greater responsibility. Of course occasional delays can happen, but repeated promises with no clear action plan are often a red flag in the job world! 

If career progression is always discussed but never delivered, it may be time to reassess your options.

3. You’re Being Undervalued

Feeling undervalued isn’t always about salary, though that can be part of it. It can also show up as:

• Limited recognition for your contribution

• Being overlooked for opportunities

• A lack of trust in your judgement

If your value isn’t recognised where you are, you deserve to be feeling valued.

4. The Culture No Longer Fits

Culture matters more than many people realise. A role that once felt like a good fit can change due to leadership shifts, restructures, or increased pressure.

If you find yourself disengaged, frustrated, or constantly drained by the working environment, it’s worth listening to that instinct. The people who you surround yourself not only impact you emotionally but physically with how you perform in your role.

5. You’re No Longer Learning

Career growth relies on learning whether that’s more technical skills, leadership exposure, or industry knowledge.

If your role has become repetitive and there’s little opportunity to develop, it may limit your long-term prospects as well as your effort no longer being there.

6. You’re Thinking About Leaving

One of the clearest signs is how often the thought crosses your mind. Sunday scaries shouldn't be happening every week!

If you regularly browse job boards, speak to recruiters out of curiosity, or imagine what else might be out there, it may be your intuition telling you it’s time to explore options, even if you’re not ready to move immediately. It never hurts to put your feelers out there. We have amazing consultants who would be happy to give you some industry insight. You can book an initial call here.

7. Your Career Goals Have Changed

As careers progress, priorities often shift. What suited you a couple of years ago may no longer align with where you want to be now.

If your current role no longer supports your personal or professional ambitions, staying put may hold you back.

Final Thought

Deciding to move jobs doesn’t have to be reactive or rushed. Often, the best moves start with a conversation, not a resignation. We would never push you to move if there's not a role that suits your needs.

If you’re unsure whether now is the right time, speaking confidentially with someone who understands the market can help you assess your options without pressure. View our candidate charter to discover what we promise to deliver.

Thinking About Your Next Step?

If you’d like honest, confidential advice about your career - whether you’re actively looking or just exploring, we’re always happy to have a conversation!