Changing your current employment situation
If my current employment is not suitable for me, what are the options? If you are finding that your current employment is no longer suitable you may wish to consider alternative options. Some possible options include:
Adjustments to your current job
- A change in your working pattern – for example, altering your working hours, working part-time or a job-share.
- Moving location – if travelling is more difficult for you now, a change of location may make life easier.
- Working from home – with the advances in IT, this is an increasingly popular option for many people. Even if you do not want to work at home the whole time, being able to do so on occasions can be useful.
A new job
- A change of job within the organisation.
- You may choose to stay in your current field but to take up employment with another organisation, perhaps one more geared to your requirements. If you choose to do this, make sure that you are always honest about your health. Withholding information or failing to tell the truth could cost you your job. (That is not to say that you have to 'volunteer' any information you are not asked for).
A change of direction
- Voluntary work – if income is not vital, one of the many opportunities presented by voluntary work may be right for you. This can provide you with a challenge whilst allowing you to give something to others.
- Becoming self-employed – if you have appropriate skills, this may be an option. Generally, a self-employed person has more control over how much work he or she takes on, and when.
- A different career – your current job may require you to do things that are, or will be, difficult for you. For this reason or others, it may be right for you to change direction. One option might be to consider moving into a role which has more of a coaching or training focus. Another might be to retrain.
- Retirement – if retirement is an option for you, it may give you freedom to pursue other interests. It is important to be aware that in most pension schemes, once you opt to take your pension, you will not be able to change your mind at a later date. As long as this is your choice and not something forced on you by others, you may find it a helpful option. Many people want the chance to recharge their batteries before deciding on their next move. Some employers will allow you a period of leave – to readjust, recuperate, or simply relax – without resigning from employment.
