Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work for another company in a similar field? You’re not alone. A lot of retail workers wonder what their current job would look like in a different company. You might have been in the same place for years, maybe even decades. This means it is hard to know if you’re receiving the job benefits that are now considered common. In a time of record-low unemployment, employers are on the hunt for great talent and are willing to offer great career progression and competitive benefits packages.

It’s a great time to re-evaluate what your current position offers and whether your skills would be better appreciated elsewhere. Have a proper think about how you feel about your current job. What flexibility does the role offer? Is there an opportunity for growth and learning? What is the culture like? What are the benefits of my current position? 

Then consider the rest of the market, this may take some time, however, we’ve included some good thinking points to get you started. How does this job compare to other jobs in my field? Is the salary competitive and fair compared to that of similar positions in my industry? What other benefits are becoming commonplace in the market?

Often people feel as if they are at a crossroads; they have to decide if they want to stay on this path or take the next step in their career. There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Some say that if it isn't broken, don't fix it, but even if your current job is getting you by, there may be an opportunity for you out there that would be better suited for you and your career progression.

The first thing to consider when making this decision is where you’re at in your career. If you know exactly what you want, feel on track to achieve your goals and are happy with where you are, then stick with it! However, if you have been working at the same company for more than two years and haven't been offered any advancement or benefit opportunities, leaving you feeling undervalued and unappreciated then it might be time to look elsewhere.

If your current position isn't meeting your expectations and you're considering a new opportunity, you may be tempted to act based on the salary being offered and then decide whether or not it's worth leaving your current job. However, it's important to keep in mind that salary is only one aspect of any job offer. Other factors such as benefits, location, commute and hours can also play an important role in making a decision about whether or not to take a new job.

Networking with colleagues and friends from different companies is a great way to find out what they do, how they work, and most importantly, what their salaries and benefits are. This will give you a sense of the market standard and help you determine if your remuneration stacks up. For an in-depth look at the current market and what's on offer, a recruiter can be a great resource. Recruiters are completely free for job seekers and have a wealth of information. Retailworld partners with a wide range of retail providers across all sectors, we pride ourselves on our industry knowledge and relationships. We understand the importance of aligning each individual's skillset and circumstances to a job opportunity that will ensure a successful & fulfilling employment relationship for all involved. 

If you currently feel undervalued in your role and don't see yourself receiving the benefits others are receiving anytime soon, it might be time to look for something new. There are no hard and fast rules here, but if your current job is leaving you without the benefits you deserve, then it doesn't make sense to stay put when there is an abundance of opportunities out there that are willing to offer much more, and could feel like home from day one!

On the other hand: what if staying feels good? If your current job has everything going for it (great location; good salary; fabulous benefits) but only lacks some things which could easily be remedied with some tweaks here or there? This situation might call for an honest conversation with senior management. In times of staffing shortages and record-low unemployment, you, the employee, have the upper hand.

Before making a big decision, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Don't be afraid to ask for help from someone who knows more than you do about the topic (like a recruiter!). If you’re feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with your role, it might be time to look at other opportunities within or outside of your industry. There is such a wide range of benefits on offer to entice new employees. If you’re interested in more advice on whether to stay or leave your current job we’re here to help. Simply message one of our recruiters in your area for free, no-obligation advice!