Skip to content
Log in
Research career paths

Signs That You Need a New Job & How to Get One

Check out our guide to finding a new job that excites and challenges you.

Starting a new job can be unfamiliar at first, but it can also open so many new doors in your life. At your new job, you'll learn something new each day and create meaningful relationships with your coworkers and mentors. New jobs mean new skills to master, more people to collaborate with, and a robust growing resume.

Looking for a new job?

Perhaps you're looking for your first job out of college, or are in the market for a change a few years into your career. Ahead, check out our guide for finding work that'll check all your boxes.

How do you know if it's time for a new job?

Stuck in a work-related rut? If you're feeling like this, it might be time to consider other options and prioritize your growth.

  • Your work feels monotonous and is no longer exciting to you.
  • The company isn't offering any room for promotion or growth.
  • Your workplace feels toxic and is weighing on your wellbeing.
  • You find yourself thinking about other professions where you would feel more passionate.

FAQ: New Jobs

What are some high-paying jobs?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the highest paying jobs are:

  • Psychiatrists
  • Anesthesiologists
  • Surgeons
  • Airline Pilots
  • Marketing Managers

What are some fun jobs to have?

While the definition of "fun" really depends on your passions and hobbies, some favorite jobs listed by the BLS are:

  • Video Game Designer
  • Food Stylist
  • Voice Actor
  • Columnist

How do I find a new job?

Search the #1 site for college student jobs in your area, consult your network, or check your university's job page.

How to search for a new job while you’re working?

If you're looking to change jobs but are still working a full-time job, it's okay to take the process at your own pace. Set aside a couple hours a week to update your resume and write cover letters. You can always reach out to your network and inquire about any roles opening up.

How to search for a new job while you’re in college?

If you have an already busy class schedule, consider a new job that's flexible and will help you save up some extra cash. Search for roles that are part-time with work schedules that allow you to still study and attend class. It will give you pretty flexible hours and you’ll be working directly with someone from your own major’s department.

How to find a new job after having one year of experience?

Before making the jump to another job, consider and research the amount of experience that is standard for roles that you want to have in the future. One year is great, though some employers may require more than that.

That said, if you're set on a finding a new job, filter through open roles in your industry and write great cover letters that exemplify why you'd be a star employee. Weave in what you learned at your previous roles and apply it to their company mission and vision.

How to ace your new job interview

Questions you might be asked in your interview:

  1. Why are you looking for a new job?
  2. Why do you want to work for this company in particular?
  3. Talk about a time you struggled at work and how you overcame that struggle.
  4. What are your values?

What should I put on my resume?

Many places hiring new employees are looking for similar keywords in resumes, but what makes the right candidate is listing skills that make you stand out.

List your past experiences

Even if you’ve never had a job in your field before, you definitely have skills from past experiences you can offer. From mentorships, internships, to school projects that you did–there are always skills you can pull from your life that apply.

Soft skills

Six soft skills that might make you a better candidate on your resume:

  • Quick learner
  • Natural leader
  • Organized
  • Accountable
  • Detail oriented
  • Collaborative

Technical skills

If this won’t be your first job, then you may have some technical skills from previous jobs to add to your resume before you apply to this new job. It’s always a good idea to mention that you have strong industry specific skills, know how to manage projects, or have had experience leading and also being a teamplayer.

What should I write in my cover letter?

Besides your stellar resume, your cover letter is another chance to really sell yourself as a future employee at a new job.

Three things you should include in your cover letter:

  1. Previous experiences and how they apply to the role you are applying for
  2. Why you’re passionate/interested in working with them
  3. Specific examples of how you could contribute to their mission

Check out this article with proper formatting techniques and more in depth information about the perfect cover letter.

Already found a new job?

Congratulations! Check out these tips for succeeding in your new role.

What should I do when I start a new job?

When onboarding is done and you've found the perfect chair height, you can start to think about the impact that you’d like to have in this role.

Three tips for your first week at a new job

  1. Introduce yourself to people outside of your direct team! Familiarizing yourself with other sides of the company is great for networking and understanding the company as a whole.
  2. Ask questions when you're confused and need more clarity. It's okay that some things are different than your last job! By asking questions you show interest and curiosity about your role.
  3. Set up a short meeting with your manager at the end of your first week to check in. Being comfortable and having an open line of communication is key.

How do I negotiate salary at a new job?

Though a job means much more than the number you're paid, salary does come up as a factor when finding and committing to a new job. When negotiating salary at a new job, there are definitely things to do and not to do.

Do:

  • Calculate your worth by considering your previous roles, years of experience, and the average pay for that role in your location.
  • Research industry trends for that role.
  • Prepare and rehearse your talking points for negotiating salary. Confidence and understanding are key.
  • Prepare questions to ask that are specific to your situation.

Do Not:

  • Come in unprepared without having done any research.
  • Let your emotions best you.
  • Accuse or demand.

How do I transfer 401k at a new job?

So, you've got the job! Now what to do about that 401k?

Start by comparing your old employer's 401k plan to the new company's. Really dig into the differences in the plans. You'll have about 60 days to decide, so start researching fairly quickly. Don't be discouraged from inquiring about plans from both previous and current employers.

Once you assess your options, you'll have a few choices:

  1. Keep your plan with your former employer.
  2. Move your savings to your new company's plan.
  3. Roll your 401k to IRA.

What do you do when you start a new job?

At the start of your new job you'll mainly be onboarding and learning the basics of your role. Besides getting comfortable with coworkers and company culture, you'll also most likely be starting projects pertaining to your role.

How should you act when you start a new job?

Depending on your personality, introductions and exchanging ideas right out of the gate might come easier to some more than others. It's okay to feel shy when you first start! In general being friendly, open to collaboration, and asking questions when you start a new job is a great place to start.

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.