my buena mano

For my buena mano blog here at i.ph, i would like to give some be-wary-so-you-won't-be-sorry tips to those who are planning to shift jobs. (So, so out of the blue for what supposed to be an introduction but who cares? C:)

Tip number 1 - determine your reason for leaving your current job. For me there are only 2 valid reasons: pay and development. All other reasons will just fall in either of those two. Promotion opportunity might fall in both categories depending on how you look at it since promotion comes with both developmental challenges and of course, a money equivalent. If you're feeling bored or you get irritated by some of your current workmates, then that will have to fall under "development." Wanting to try new roles, new organization, new bosses, new career path– that will have to go, still, under "development."

Tip number 2 - if it is pay that made you decide to explore jobs outside of your current work, then be careful in weighing the promises made during those job offers that you've gone through. Remember to look at the total annual NET income (meaning all deductions from taxes, SSS, etc. taken), all bonuses and variable pay like OT pay–not just the monthly take home… Consider also the indirect cash benefits. Weigh them depending on the lifestyle that you have… For those who have theirs parents as dependents, health insurance might be a huge factor. For those who are travelling long distances to get to their workplace, car plan and gasoline allowance might be a deal-braker. Take into consideration the amount of money that you will have to spend if these types of benefits will not be included in your compensation and benefits package, and then deduct that from your supposed take home pay. Do this in all of your offers, including your current job, when you weigh your options.

Tip number 3 - if you want development, look first at your inner self before pointing the blame to your current employer. Please put in mind that development should first be initiated by oneself before others can influence it. No matter how many opportunities an organization can offer, if you will not open yourself to constructive criticisms, if you will not be ready to take on new challenges, if you won't recognize your need for improvement, then those opportunities will all be nothing but a popped bubble in the air.

Tip number 4 - decide your ultimate plan in life. There are people who are destined to be successful in the corporate world… there are those who are bound to be great entrepreneurs… decide where you feel you belong… what are your capabilities? what are your weaknesses?

Tip number 5 - act now or else, stay for good. If you cannot decide which company to go to other than your current work, then forget about moving out for the mean time. You might just be needing some laid back time in your current job.