Thinking About a Career Change? Here’s Some Helpful Hints
September 10, 2025
Feeling stuck or restless in your current job? Considering a switch can be exciting—but it’s also a decision that carries financial and personal consequences. Before making a move, give yourself space to think it through. Here are four key areas to help guide your next step.
1. Get clear on what you really want.
Start by asking yourself some honest questions: What’s driving my desire for change? Which parts of my work energize me—and which drain me? Am I looking for more flexibility, recognition, growth, or balance?
Sometimes the right answer isn’t a brand-new career, but a shift within your current company. Maybe a raise, a break, or a lateral move into a new role could reignite your motivation. On the other hand, you might discover that what you truly want is a fresh start in a different field altogether. Reflecting on your priorities and values will help point you in the right direction.
2. Look beyond the paycheck.
A higher salary is appealing, but it’s not the whole story. Consider the complete compensation package: retirement contributions, profit-sharing, stock options, health insurance, disability coverage, and even extras like tuition or student loan assistance.
Think, too, about how the role could change your daily life. Will you be working longer hours? Relocating?
Commuting more—or less? How will stress and taxes play into the equation? Evaluating both money and lifestyle factors will give you a fuller picture of what the job is really worth.
3. Don’t walk away empty-handed.
Timing matters. Before you hand in your notice, check if you are close to getting a bonus. Also, see if you are near a vesting date for stock or 401(k) matches.
Lastly, make sure you know how much vacation time you have earned. You don’t want to forfeit benefits you’ve already earned.
Also, wrap up reimbursements and tie up loose ends so you leave on good terms. A smooth exit not only protects your finances—it helps preserve your professional network and reputation.
4. Be smart with your retirement savings.
If you’ve been contributing to a workplace retirement plan, you’ll need to decide what to do with that money. You usually have a few options. You can leave it in your current plan.
You can roll it into your new employer’s plan. You can move it to an IRA. You can also cash it out, but that can lead to big tax consequences. Take the time to review your choices so your long-term savings stay on track.
Sources:
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/career-tips
Disclosure:
This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.
This material is provided as a courtesy and for educational purposes only.
These are the views of the author, not the named Representative or Advisory Services Network, LLC, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named Representative nor Advisory Services Network, LLC gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information.