I currently work in a very prestigious, high profile financial services firm. Since starting a year ago, they have utilized me fully, and I have learned a great deal. However, they have changed my job 3 times, and I feel that this is happening due to my spirit of teamwork, professionalism and being flexible. My salary has not changed as additional responsibilities and significantly different job descriptions have landed on my lap. I have great performance feedback, but not much of a reward at this point. Is it time to leave?

-- Adriana Shore (adri_shore@yahoo.com), May 19, 2001

Answers

Adriana,

A mentor of mine once told me that the time to change jobs is when I find myself dragging myself out of bed, very un-enthused about going to work. Naturally, you need to understand the core reason for being un-enthusiastic about your work and if there is something that you yourself can change in the current environment.

I've used this "reasoning" process during my career and the advice has served me well. I don't feel that compensation is the only reward available. Are you getting the appropriate amount of visibility for your work? Do you continue to learn? Are you always being challenged? All of these are factors in how enthusiastic you are about your work. If you're not, then perhaps it is time to leave.

Good luck! Sanjay

-- Sanjay Zalavadia (zal@cornerpub.com), May 22, 2001.