6 signs that indicate you should be looking for a new job
Change is scary but sometimes necessary especially when it comes to your job.
If you spot the following signs in your current job, it may be right time to consider a new position elsewhere.
If you spot the following signs in your current job, it may be right time to consider a new position elsewhere.
- Unkept promises. Perhaps your boss had promised you certain things during an earlier season of your career such as a salary increment, a change in your role or insurance coverage. However, after some time, you begin to realise that none of these promises had ever materialised. Despite having highlighting this fact to your boss, nothing has changed and your patience has reached its limit.
- Ethical issues. For one reason or another, you and the company may be on opposite sides when it comes to issues of ethics or corporate philosophy. Perhaps you don’t agree with certain practices such as bribery.
- Health hazards. If your company deals in hazardous or flammable materials, adequate safety measures and procedures have to be followed. If your company fails to adhere strictly to these procedures and you feel that your life is at risk from exposure or leaks, then you need to consider finding a new job or company.
- An abusive environment. Abuse could be physical, sexual, emotional or even verbal, and can come from a fellow co-worker or even from your boss. Be aware of your rights as an employee and if ever anyone does something to you which clearly crosses typical work boundaries, you should report it immediately and if necessary, leave the job promptly.
- Changes in personal circumstances. Some aspects of your personal life have changed lately, and this has a direct impact on your ability to continue working at your current job. Examples include marriage, having children or sudden additional responsibilities like caring for a gravely ill family member. You may have contemplated giving up your career completely in such cases, but before you decide to do so, you should speak to your boss about part time or casual work. It is less taxing than a full load, and will allow you to continue to earn income whilst giving you more flexibility so you can tend to the new responsibilities in your life. If your current company is unable to support your need for more personal time, then you should consider looking elsewhere.
- Dead ends. Although you enjoy what you do at work, there is little opportunity for you to advance your career. You are not able to diversify your role or change your routine, and it is not likely that you will be considered for promotion. This could be due to a lack of vision within the organisation or an unwillingness to explore diversification, although this is clearly needed for long term survival. The industry you work in could also be suffering presently, with many of your contemporaries from other firms getting laid off from work or facing severe pay cuts.
What reasons have caused you to leave your job previously? Do you identify with any of the factors that were highlighted above? Feel free to share with us, we’d love to hear your story. For more stories on careers and personal development, go to http://jobscentral.com.my/resources/index.
Getting IT right
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector has been regarded as an important sector in the Malaysian economy over the last few decades. In fact, it has been listed as one of the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs) that was mentioned in the Tenth Malaysia Plan (10MP). In 2009, the ICT sector contributed to 9.8% of Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and this figure is expected to increase to become 10.2% by the year 2015. For this year alone, it is predicted that the industry will experience a growth rate of 15% due to an improved economic climate. These are all clear indications that ICT development remains as one of the main priorities for the nation in the year 2010.
The prospects for the ICT sector in Malaysia are good, and C.J. Ang, the President of the Association of the Computer and Multimedia Industry (PIKOM) expressed that there is a positive outlook for this industry for this year. Muhammad Imran Kunalan Abdullah, General Manager of K-Workers Development at the Multimedia Development Corp (MDeC), states there are presently many ICT job opportunities available and the demand for labour with relevant technical skills and experience has been growing steadily.
However, the ICT sector still lacks sufficient human resources in most areas of specialisation. According to Andrew Milroy, ICT director at Frost & Sullivan, this is due to society’s general perception about ICT careers. Many do not regard such jobs as being interesting and consequently, job seekers may opt to do something that perhaps does not pay as well, but is seen as more fun. Further accentuating the severity of this problem is the fact that ICT related courses are not a popular choice amongst students at a tertiary level, thus widening the gap in ICT talent even further. In order to address this acute need for ICT professionals within Malaysia, the nation’s Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, says the government has decided to approve as many as 1,000 work permits annually to allow qualified foreign ICT graduates from local universities to work in the country.
Therefore, for anyone who desires to work in Malaysia and possesses ICT skills and/or relevant working experience, this is good news indeed. In particular, if you are well versed in Web technologies, mobile content development or Internet related services, the future is certainly a bright one for you. For those who are competent in programming languages such as C, C++, Java, PHP or other similar technologies, you can expect to see a 3% increase in the minimum as well as maximum salary figures that you could possibly earn from your work.
According to the Malaysian Employment Outlook and Salary Guide 2009/2010 by Kelly Services, currently popular ICT jobs include positions such as Help Desk Analyst, Software Engineer, Channel Sales Specialist and Unix Specialist. The expected salary range for such professions typically lies between RM2500 and 4500.
As ICT usage is increasing in all industries and businesses across the nation, there are numerous possibilities for where job opportunities can be found. Although the typical option of working in software houses or other types of companies which focus solely on ICT still exists, the reality is that there are no limits today on which industry ICT workers can choose to delve into.
Some common areas where ICT labour is often needed is found in the aviation, travel and financial sector. This is because of the increase of online applications in such businesses over recent years. In fact, e-commerce business models have become more and more popular in this time and age, and any enterprise that adopts such a model would surely have need for ICT professionals, regardless of which sector the firm operates in. In fact, e-commerce is projected to contribute a hefty RM92.7 billion to the nation’s income this year, a 32% increase as compared to the previous year.
Software development isn’t the only area with great career potential; for those who are well versed with the hardware side of things, there are plenty of openings available for you to explore also. In line with the growing trend towards using online and mobile devices both on a personal as well as corporate level, the demand for expertise in broadband and high speed broadband (HSBB) infrastructure and networking will be greater than ever before. In correspondence to these technological advances, issues of information security in both a physical as well as virtual sense would arise, thus career prospects are excellent for experts in this field. As stated by Maggie Tan, Associate Research Director at IDC Malaysia, “information is the most precious thing” to a business and organisations would be keen to do all in their power to safeguard this invaluable asset of theirs.
Other areas of interest for those in the ICT sector would be the potential of cloud computing applications within the Malaysian market. Although the brunt of the previous economic slowdown is slowly wearing off, most companies are still cautious about their budgets and spending, especially when it comes to technology related costs. Therefore, the option of online software which is readily available at a substantially lower cost than those which are purchased or developed in-house is very appealing. Microsoft supports this view as well, and has in fact regarded this area of ICT as one of utmost importance for the Malaysian market in 2010. Hence, opting to take up ICT jobs which support such technology would be highly recommended.
Creative multimedia is another branch of ICT that has currently gotten the attention of the Malaysian government. Datuk Badlisham Ghazali, the Chief Executive Officer of Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC), says that there have been plans to groom Malaysia to become a hub for animation, filmmaking and games within the region. Hence, skills in digital animation, video editing and electronic entertainment would be highly valued in the nation at this time.
On the whole, it can be said that the outlook for the ICT sector in Malaysia is encouraging, and job seekers can look forward to good career prospects within the industry.
The prospects for the ICT sector in Malaysia are good, and C.J. Ang, the President of the Association of the Computer and Multimedia Industry (PIKOM) expressed that there is a positive outlook for this industry for this year. Muhammad Imran Kunalan Abdullah, General Manager of K-Workers Development at the Multimedia Development Corp (MDeC), states there are presently many ICT job opportunities available and the demand for labour with relevant technical skills and experience has been growing steadily.
However, the ICT sector still lacks sufficient human resources in most areas of specialisation. According to Andrew Milroy, ICT director at Frost & Sullivan, this is due to society’s general perception about ICT careers. Many do not regard such jobs as being interesting and consequently, job seekers may opt to do something that perhaps does not pay as well, but is seen as more fun. Further accentuating the severity of this problem is the fact that ICT related courses are not a popular choice amongst students at a tertiary level, thus widening the gap in ICT talent even further. In order to address this acute need for ICT professionals within Malaysia, the nation’s Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, says the government has decided to approve as many as 1,000 work permits annually to allow qualified foreign ICT graduates from local universities to work in the country.
Therefore, for anyone who desires to work in Malaysia and possesses ICT skills and/or relevant working experience, this is good news indeed. In particular, if you are well versed in Web technologies, mobile content development or Internet related services, the future is certainly a bright one for you. For those who are competent in programming languages such as C, C++, Java, PHP or other similar technologies, you can expect to see a 3% increase in the minimum as well as maximum salary figures that you could possibly earn from your work.
According to the Malaysian Employment Outlook and Salary Guide 2009/2010 by Kelly Services, currently popular ICT jobs include positions such as Help Desk Analyst, Software Engineer, Channel Sales Specialist and Unix Specialist. The expected salary range for such professions typically lies between RM2500 and 4500.
As ICT usage is increasing in all industries and businesses across the nation, there are numerous possibilities for where job opportunities can be found. Although the typical option of working in software houses or other types of companies which focus solely on ICT still exists, the reality is that there are no limits today on which industry ICT workers can choose to delve into.
Some common areas where ICT labour is often needed is found in the aviation, travel and financial sector. This is because of the increase of online applications in such businesses over recent years. In fact, e-commerce business models have become more and more popular in this time and age, and any enterprise that adopts such a model would surely have need for ICT professionals, regardless of which sector the firm operates in. In fact, e-commerce is projected to contribute a hefty RM92.7 billion to the nation’s income this year, a 32% increase as compared to the previous year.
Software development isn’t the only area with great career potential; for those who are well versed with the hardware side of things, there are plenty of openings available for you to explore also. In line with the growing trend towards using online and mobile devices both on a personal as well as corporate level, the demand for expertise in broadband and high speed broadband (HSBB) infrastructure and networking will be greater than ever before. In correspondence to these technological advances, issues of information security in both a physical as well as virtual sense would arise, thus career prospects are excellent for experts in this field. As stated by Maggie Tan, Associate Research Director at IDC Malaysia, “information is the most precious thing” to a business and organisations would be keen to do all in their power to safeguard this invaluable asset of theirs.
Other areas of interest for those in the ICT sector would be the potential of cloud computing applications within the Malaysian market. Although the brunt of the previous economic slowdown is slowly wearing off, most companies are still cautious about their budgets and spending, especially when it comes to technology related costs. Therefore, the option of online software which is readily available at a substantially lower cost than those which are purchased or developed in-house is very appealing. Microsoft supports this view as well, and has in fact regarded this area of ICT as one of utmost importance for the Malaysian market in 2010. Hence, opting to take up ICT jobs which support such technology would be highly recommended.
Creative multimedia is another branch of ICT that has currently gotten the attention of the Malaysian government. Datuk Badlisham Ghazali, the Chief Executive Officer of Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC), says that there have been plans to groom Malaysia to become a hub for animation, filmmaking and games within the region. Hence, skills in digital animation, video editing and electronic entertainment would be highly valued in the nation at this time.
On the whole, it can be said that the outlook for the ICT sector in Malaysia is encouraging, and job seekers can look forward to good career prospects within the industry.
Surviving and thriving amidst office politics
Going to work each day can become a terrible dread whenever office politics comes to a head. However, most of the time, such predicaments are well beyond our control as individuals. Nevertheless, each and every person within an organisation has a part to play in minimising the occurrences of negative experiences and attitudes at work.
It is possible to survive and even potentially thrive in the midst of harrowing circumstances that take at work.
In terms of surviving office politics, here are some practical steps that you can take to make your experience at the office a more peaceful and enjoyable one:
Be respectful and diplomatic. Whatever the problem may be, practising an attitude of respect for whenever you deal with others, regardless of who they are or what position they hold in the organisation. Give people a sense of dignity through the way you relate to them. People who feel respected would more likely give you a similar treatment. It also makes a huge difference if you handle a conflict carefully and with a sense of tactfulness.
Form strategic alliances. By this I do not mean you should try to get as many people as possible to be on your side whenever there’s a conflict. Rather, your aim should be to be friendly to all and to build good relationships with whoever you’re working with. It is important to find ways to get along even with those whom you dislike or those whom you have trouble getting along with.
Think before you act or speak. As simple as this may seem, it can really make a big difference and save you tons of unnecessary hassle down the road. Despite how you may feel about a certain issue or person, take time to think through your actions or words before doing or saying something.
Understand your office culture. Every workplace has an unwritten code of conduct, and it would benefit you greatly if you are able to detect this and to find ways to use this to your advantage. The point here is not to plot and scheme for your own personal gain, but instead observe how others act around you and adjusting your behaviour to suit the prevailing preferences .
Learn from others. Identify individuals in your company who are performing well and analyse why this is so. Perhaps you could emulate certain things from them regarding how to excel in the place where you work. If he or she is an approachable person, you might like to consider asking them if they would like to be your mentor as well. That way, you can go to him or her directly to seek advice on matters pertaining to the office whenever the need arises..
Go straight to the source. It is common for rumours and all sorts of gossip to spread within a company, but you can play your part in helping to curb it. While it may not possible to stop others from talking, you can do your bit by resolving not to pass on any information that would be detrimental to anyone in the office.
All in all, dealing with office politics is something that can only be learnt through trial and error. Whilst there may not always be a direct solution, it helps if you keep an open mind and maintain a positive attitude coupled by a good sense of humour.
I’m sure every one of you readers out there has had some real life experiences with regards to office politics. Are you the type who would actively participate in it or are you the silent observer? Do you agree with the principles I highlighted just now? Or perhaps you have another method of handling things? Feel free to share your opinions on this topic by dropping a comment.
Read more
It is possible to survive and even potentially thrive in the midst of harrowing circumstances that take at work.
In terms of surviving office politics, here are some practical steps that you can take to make your experience at the office a more peaceful and enjoyable one:
Be respectful and diplomatic. Whatever the problem may be, practising an attitude of respect for whenever you deal with others, regardless of who they are or what position they hold in the organisation. Give people a sense of dignity through the way you relate to them. People who feel respected would more likely give you a similar treatment. It also makes a huge difference if you handle a conflict carefully and with a sense of tactfulness.
Form strategic alliances. By this I do not mean you should try to get as many people as possible to be on your side whenever there’s a conflict. Rather, your aim should be to be friendly to all and to build good relationships with whoever you’re working with. It is important to find ways to get along even with those whom you dislike or those whom you have trouble getting along with.
Think before you act or speak. As simple as this may seem, it can really make a big difference and save you tons of unnecessary hassle down the road. Despite how you may feel about a certain issue or person, take time to think through your actions or words before doing or saying something.
Understand your office culture. Every workplace has an unwritten code of conduct, and it would benefit you greatly if you are able to detect this and to find ways to use this to your advantage. The point here is not to plot and scheme for your own personal gain, but instead observe how others act around you and adjusting your behaviour to suit the prevailing preferences .
Learn from others. Identify individuals in your company who are performing well and analyse why this is so. Perhaps you could emulate certain things from them regarding how to excel in the place where you work. If he or she is an approachable person, you might like to consider asking them if they would like to be your mentor as well. That way, you can go to him or her directly to seek advice on matters pertaining to the office whenever the need arises..
Go straight to the source. It is common for rumours and all sorts of gossip to spread within a company, but you can play your part in helping to curb it. While it may not possible to stop others from talking, you can do your bit by resolving not to pass on any information that would be detrimental to anyone in the office.
All in all, dealing with office politics is something that can only be learnt through trial and error. Whilst there may not always be a direct solution, it helps if you keep an open mind and maintain a positive attitude coupled by a good sense of humour.
I’m sure every one of you readers out there has had some real life experiences with regards to office politics. Are you the type who would actively participate in it or are you the silent observer? Do you agree with the principles I highlighted just now? Or perhaps you have another method of handling things? Feel free to share your opinions on this topic by dropping a comment.
