If you work in an environment where people are regularly coming and going for a variety of reasons, it can be hard to pinpoint when it’s your time to leave. Are you being dramatic, or is it really time to pack up and find a new place to put down roots? You spend a lot of time at work, so you should be somewhere that works for you. Keep reading for 8 reasons that you should change your job.
 
1. You Aren’t Learning
Continuing education is a fundamental part of life. Your work should be teaching you daily. About your job, the world, or really anything. If you aren’t learning new things at work, then it might be time to find a new job. It’s time to leave your comfort zone.
 
2. You Don’t Feel Satisfied with Your Contributions
No longer feeling like you are contributing or making worthwhile contributions at work can leave you feeling unworthy or, like your position in the company doesn’t matter. Seek out a work environment that you can contribute to. No need to feel trapped in your circumstances.
 
3. You Aren’t Enjoying Your Work
Every day isn’t going to be a cakewalk, but you should still generally enjoy your work and the people that you work with. Feuding coworkers don’t help the situation either..
 
4. You Don’t Feel Valued
You should feel valued by your company, supervisor, and coworkers. That is a basic human necessity that you deserve.
 
5. You Have Negative Feelings Regularly
If the “Sunday Scaries” is a nightly occurrence, and your drive to work is rife with distress, considering looking for a job that at least brings platonic emotions.
 
6. Your Health is Suffering
If your work is negatively affecting your physical and/or mental health, then take that as a clear and loud sign that you need to go elsewhere. You can’t work if you’re dead, and everyone can be replaced.
 
7. You’ve Topped Out
Look around your office. If there is nowhere else to go and you have reached your plateau, then it is time to look for a position that will either be a move up or will allow for more advancement.
 
8. Your Environment is Toxic
Overbearing taskmasters, constant turmoil, and lack of a work/life balance are clear signs that you are working in a toxic environment. However, many other forms of toxic work environments are not as easily picked out. Think carefully about what you want out of your work culture and what you are actually getting.
 
Sometimes it is evident when you need to find a new job. However, for many, it can be a series of small and seemingly minuscule events and feelings that lead to finding new work. Think about your work life and personal life, and consider if a change is in need.

Here is a list of more than 60 places where you can find and apply for remote jobs. If you’re trying to start a freelance career or hoping to find a remote job, these websites are a great place to start looking.

Some of these sites are free, while others are paid membership sites.

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​Chances are you or a coworker will face the question of returning to work after cancer treatment. Cancer now affects 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men, while the survival rate for many cancers is increasing. 
 
While the risk of cancer increases with age, it also affects many younger adults still in the workplace. An estimated 46% of patients diagnosed with cancer are between the ages of 20 and 64. 
 
Surveys find that most cancer survivors who return to work say that it’s beneficial for their recovery. In addition to needing the income, you may enjoy using your skills and maintaining personal relationships.
 
For some cancer survivors, it’s gratifying just to have experiences apart from their medical condition.
 
Your individual needs will depend on many factors, including your specific diagnosis.
 
Use these suggestions to help you deal with health and career issues if you’re considering going back to work after cancer treatment.

1. Follow up. It’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for aftercare. Let your doctor’s office know if you need to arrange appointments and medications in a way that will have the least impact on your job.

1. Manage stress. Some cancer patients experience depression and anxiety, in addition to the usual job-related stress. Find relaxation practices that work for you like meditation and physical exercise.

1. Seek support. Be willing to accept assistance. Tell your family, friends, and coworkers what you need. Reach out to other cancer patients or call your local hospital to find a support group near you. The American Cancer Society may be a great place to start. There are many other resources available.

 

1. Understand your rights. There are several government programs and policies that may help you make the transition back to work, including the Americans with Disability Act and the Family Medical Leave Act. Ask your HR Department or contact a social worker or advocacy group for more information.

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1. Guard your privacy. You also have the right to keep your medical information confidential if you wish. Many employers are supportive, but you may sometimes face discrimination. Learning the basics about employment laws may help you feel a little more empowered. Let your doctor know if you want to avoid any reference to cancer when they fill out forms from your employer.

1. Stay in touch. Returning to the office will be easier if you can find ways to stay involved during your treatment. If you have been out of touch, it may help to reconnect with your network. Also, start reading your industry’s publications if they apply to your profession. Maybe you have an office buddy you can call occasionally.

1. Prepare for questions. You may find that some colleagues are eager to welcome you back while others seem uncomfortable. Rehearse what you want to say about your condition or your time away, so you’ll be ready with a response that works for you.

 

1. Reduce your hours. Part-time work is one of the simplest ways to transition back gradually. Many cancer patients experience fatigue, so respect your limits.

 

1. Additional time off, post cancer treatment. If you need to take time off for additional treatment or manage your symptoms, after you have returned to work (post cancer treatments), the Family and Medical Leave Act protects your job. Employees with serious illness are allowed by law to take up to 12 weeks off (all at once or spread out over time) and/or work part-time for a limited time.

 

1. Ask for accommodations. Evaluate your workspace and usual tasks. Talk with your employer about accommodations and/or modifications that can help you to do your job. For example, you might need to keep your office scent-free to avoid triggering nausea. 

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1. things down. Some of your symptoms may have more to do with the side effects of your treatment rather than the cancer itself. If chemotherapy affects your concentration, make written notes to remind you of any details you might forget.

 

1. Change jobs. You may still be able to work even if your current position poses difficulties for your recovery. Research other fields or apply for jobs with less demanding responsibilities. You may even want to consider working remote jobs.

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• Applying for a new job and your privacy. If you apply for a new job, you are not legally obligated to reveal your cancer history unless it directly impacts the work you will be doing

​With skillful communication and planning, you may be able to continue working after your cancer treatment. Talk with your doctor to ensure that you’re well enough to do your job and work with your employer to make any necessary adjustments.

A government job is always a great addition to your resume and your career. The government offers a large variety of career options including thousands of jobs. In fact, the government is one of the largest employers nationwide.

The list below can help you navigate through various available opportunities within the government. Some of these sites have job listings, others help with guidance. They provide information about jobs or job searching within The United States government.

Government Jobs; Government Work; Government Employment; Politics jobs; Federal Government Jobs; US Government Jobs; DC Government Jobs.
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​Here is a list of 20 places where you can find and apply for remote jobs. If you’re trying to start a freelance career or  hoping to nail down a remote job, these websites are a great place to start looking.
 
Some of these sites are free, while others are paid membership sites.

You may have heard the term “the hidden job market.” What is it, and how do jobseekers get access to it? The “hidden job market” is a phrase that describes job openings that are not publicly advertised. 

• The cost of advertising an open position can be substantial.
• They don’t want to be overwhelmed with applications.
• A new role is being created and they are unsure of the qualifications of the ideal employee.
• They are replacing an existing employee (who doesn’t know they are being replaced).

 
Most of these job opportunities are accessed through referrals from current employees of the company. It’s estimated that 60-80 percent of jobs are found through professional networking. While not all of the jobs found through professional networking are accessing the hidden job market (after all, your friends/family/acquaintance network can help you access interviews for advertised opportunities too), almost all candidates who get interviews for unadvertised jobs do so through networking.
 
Current employees can be an excellent source of candidates. Particularly if the company has a strong workplace culture, having existing employees identify prospective candidates can help ensure solid candidates are encouraged to apply. Some companies even reward employees — with cash or gift cards — for recommending a candidate who is eventually hired.
 
Employee referrals provide an advantage for the jobseeker too. Employee recommendations can carry great weight. Plus, there is less competition for job opportunities accessed through the hidden job market than for openly advertised opportunities.
 
Being referred by a current employee may also mean that your application is set apart from the typical internal processes that most jobseekers have to navigate — such as an applicant tracking system for online applications.
 
Recruiters are another source of unadvertised positions. An employer may choose to work with a recruiter to fill a job rather than advertise it publicly. The recruiter sources job candidates, screens prospective hires, and sends the hiring manager a handful of handpicked candidates. This saves the company time and money. In many cases, when working with a third-party recruiter, the company only pays the recruiter if a candidate is hired, and only if he or she stays for a specified period of time (say, six months).
 
So how do you tap into the hidden job market? Because opportunities are filled both through employee referrals and recruiting, you will want to cover both bases.
 
Accessing the hidden job market works best when you have a clear target in mind — either a specific job title or, even better, a specific list of companies you’d like to work for.
 
There are basically three ways to access the hidden job market:

• Connect with someone at the company through your network (either an employee who can refer you or a hiring manager or a recruiter who works for the company).
• Contact the company directly about exploring unadvertised opportunities.
• Be visible enough in your industry or field to be contacted by a prospective employer.

• Let your network know you are looking for a new position. While this can be difficult if you are conducting a confidential job search, it’s important that the people you know think of you when an opening comes up.

• Following the advice of author Harvey Mackey, “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty.” Having a large network of contacts pays off when it’s time to look for a new job — particularly when you want to tap into the hidden job market. Keep in touch with your former colleagues and bosses. Build your LinkedIn network by connecting with people in your field — but also by adding folks you know from everyday life — the other parents you sit with at your child’s karate dojo, the members of your recreational softball team, your neighbors, etc. All of these can potentially help you tap into the hidden job market.

• Help others. “Give to get.” Zig Ziglar famously said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” Keep your ears open about unadvertised openings and help connect those in your network to these opportunities. This type of assistance is often reciprocated. Cultivate relationships with peers in the industry. These connections at other companies can pay off.

• If there is a particular employer you are interested in working for, consider approaching the company directly. When approaching a target employer directly, research the hiring manager and see if there is a mutual connection you can approach to make the introduction. Focus on expanding your network until you connect with someone who works there. Ask him or her to keep you in mind for unadvertised opportunities — or even pass along your résumé right away, even if there isn’t currently an opening.

 
While you are logged into your LinkedIn account, go to the company page and see if you have any existing connections with current or former employees:
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• Identify companies in growth mode. Read your local business journal or the Business section of your local newspaper to find out which companies are growing. You’ll find announcements of new contracts, large office leases, and similar news in local publications or by setting up a targeted Google News alert.

• Look on LinkedIn for recruiters who work at your target employer. Some companies recruit primarily through in-house recruiters (recruiters who are company employees). Connecting with these individuals can be an excellent way to access the hidden job market.

 
While you are logged into your LinkedIn account, do a search for recruiter + [company name]:

• Connect with 2-3 recruiters in your industry or specialty. You may even be able to find out if the company uses a specific outside recruiter or agency for its searches. (Your network may be able to help you find this information, or you can contact the company directly to ask.) Having these extra eyes and ears looking out for opportunities can be a valuable asset in your job search.

• Make it easy to be found. Another angle to accessing the hidden job market is being approached directly about an unadvertised opportunity. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and make yourself visible by participating in industry activities, speaking and writing (when possible), and positioning yourself as a thought leader.

• Be active on social media. Follow employers you are interested in and engage them thoughtfully — liking and commenting on status updates and participating in online conversations with the brand itself or key employees. Share articles and insights about your industry. Follow and interact with key influencers in the industry using social media.

• Join online groups in your industry. While LinkedIn Groups have diminished in influence over the years, they still remain a good way to connect with colleagues. Plus, being active in Groups can make you more visible to recruiters in your industry.

• Join other online groups. Industry groups are the most logical choice for growing your network, but really any online groups can help you connect with others who may be able to help in your job search. This can include groups focused on your hobbies and interests as well as school alumni groups (not just college, but high school too).

• Get involved in associations and activities in your industry. Participate in professional association activities and build rapport with colleagues. Attend conferences and industry events. These are an opportunity to meet hiring managers and decision-makers at your target companies. The wider your network, the more opportunities to access the hidden job market.

• Another source of networking connections may be your university’s alumni association. If you are looking for a connection at a target company, see if the alumni association knows of one, or peruse the bios of company employees or leadership and see if you have a school in common. Looking at a company’s profile on LinkedIn may also potentially help you find alumni connections.

 
Remember, exploring the hidden job market is just one possible way to connect with your dream job. It’s a strategy that can pay off handsomely, but will often take longer than simply identifying advertised openings and applying. However, you will likely find there is less competition for the job opportunity, and if you are using an “inside source” — either a current employee or an internal recruiter — your likelihood of landing an interview can be higher than seeking out a traditionally advertised opening.

• Make a list of all of your existing offline connections (your holiday card or Christmas card list can be a good source to start).
• Get more involved on LinkedIn. Focus on adding 2-3 new connections each week, including recruiters in your industry. Participate in Groups and like and comment on posts. This can take as little as 5-10 minutes each day.
• Write out a list of employers you’d like to work for. This is your target company list. Next, focus on identifying anyone you know who currently works for that company.
• Commit to reading the Business section of your local newspaper and any local business journals weekly to look for companies in hiring mode.
• Get involved — whether online or “in real life,” visibility is important. Engage with groups, organizations, and associations by volunteering and participating in activities and events.

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​Job hunting is always tough but the holiday season can require an even more strategic approach. These are some basic principles and concrete steps to take for making the most of the special opportunities that exist at this time of year.

• Recognize that people's schedules may be more irregular than usual. During the Holiday Season it's important to keep in mind that people may be out of the office more. Avoid becoming anxious just because your phone calls or emails fail to get returned promptly.

• Be gentle with yourself. For all the joy, the holidays can be an emotionally intense period under the best of circumstances. Take it easy on yourself when you're trying to cope with the financial and psychological impact of being unemployed. 

• Nourish your spirits. Devote some regular time to activities that help you feel better. It will make it easier to project a positive attitude that improves your chances for a getting a job offer. Learn how to give a great speech or hone your skills. Get plenty of physical exercise to help stay energized.

• Take a long-term perspective. It's common for job searches to take longer than usual these days. Set incremental goals so you can acknowledge the progress while you're waiting for a job offer.

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• Welcome the reduced competition. By continuing your job search towards the end of the year, you distinguish yourself from all those who may be tempted to take a hiatus. You might find that fewer applicants are coming forward for the openings that interest you.

• Network more. It's a great season for networking. Accept party invitations. Talk with more new people. A good lead can come from unexpected sources. Volunteer work is another way to meet new people and try out new experiences.

• Reestablish old connections. Send out cards and make some phone calls. Sending holiday greetings gives you a ready-made reason to get in touch without putting people off by asking about job prospects directly.

 

• Consider a temporary position. Many companies hire temporary help this time of year. It could be a great way to pick up some extra cash and expand your skills.

 

• Encourage gifts that will help your job search. If people ask you what you want for Christmas, volunteer that you appreciate anything to help with your job search. It could be something like a gift certificate for resume paper.

 

• Devote more time to research. If things slow down, use this extra time wisely. Go online or visit the library to research potential employers and industry trends.

 

• Update your resume. This may also be a good time to review your written materials like resumes and cover letters. Look for ways to tweak your content to highlight your accomplishments and the contribution you could make to a potential employer.

 

• Learn new skills. You may also want to focus on mastering some new skills. Public libraries often offer free computer courses or workshops with experts who can assist you with your plans to start a small business of your own.

 

• ​Make plans for the year ahead. Keep your hopes up by planning for the year ahead. Set monthly goals for your job search. Make contingency plans so you'll feel more secure. Visualize finding the career opportunity that you seek.

​It may feel especially unpleasant to be unemployed during the holidays when the rest of the world seems to be celebrating. Be kind to yourself to manage your emotions and relieve stress while you play an active role in building a better career future.

​As a result of the Gig Economy, the nature of work has also changed. Today, the number of freelancers or that of the self-employed is significantly higher than ever before. If this is your case, you may face obstacles if you ever try to get back into the corporate lifestyle.
 
As employers do recognize abilities such as decision-making, management, creativity, and more in a self-employed person, they also tend to fret and frown. They question other details such as business profitability or your coachability. In other words, will you be open to learn their ways and follow their rules? Will you be “coachable”?
 
As you think of updating your resume, you may want to implement these ideas throughout your job search efforts. Regardless of the length of your self-employment, the right attitude and some planning hacks will help you find the ideal job a little easier.

1. Prepare to answer questions. Prepare yourself to answer questions about why you want to work for a company or for someone else. Your answer can only be a “positive” response. Answer the question in a positive way. For example, you can briefly elaborate on the fact that you need a new challenge.
   
   
2. Be adaptable. Many employers or recruiters may wonder about whether you are set in your own ways as a self-employed person or if you will be coachable and trainable. When in an interview, do talk about your ability to adapt to changing demands and new or different ways of doing things.
   
   
3. Corporate culture. Here is another concern… Hiring managers may question whether or not you will fit-in their organization or team(s). Be sure to do your part well. Study the company, its mission, values, and culture. You will find that proper preparation will often remove obstacles from even surfacing.
   
   
4. Get recommendations. One of the best ways to find a new job is through referrals. A recommendation is still a very powerful tool and should not be underestimated.  Network with your clients for leads and ask them to have you in mind if they hear about any opportunities that may match your qualifications. You will be surprised at the leads that may come your way from those you did not expect.
   
   
5. Prepare Your Own Portfolio. Once you create your own portfolio (also called a brag book), it will be much easier to market your services instead of just responding to job advertisements. Which companies interest you the most? Send them your portfolio to market yourself better.

1. Expand your options. Some hiring managers will be more open to considering candidates with entrepreneurial backgrounds. If you encounter too much resistance, move on to a more welcoming climate.
   
   
2. Don’t underestimate start-ups. Many entrepreneurs will greatly appreciate your entrepreneurial endeavors. Chances are high they will also understand your situation very well. Find out who they are and grow alongside them.
   
   
3. Think long-term. In some cases, being self-employed may increase the time it takes you to find your next position. Maintain a positive attitude and surround yourself with supportive friends.
   
   

Give yourself credit for having the courage and creativity to run a business. As you re-enter the corporate world, look for employers who will appreciate your background and welcome the contribution you can make.

​Learn how to write an elevator pitch as a short summary to talk about yourself in a compelling and concise way. Knowing how to do this right is imperative. Your elevator pitch tells the employers about what your expertise is, how you can contribute and what is the impact of your contribution. Try out these suggestions for preparing and presenting your introduction.

• ​Invent multiple versions. Adapt your elevator pitch to a variety of circumstances. That way you can respond if you have extra time. You’ll also be able to talk to industry insiders and other professionals who are less familiar with your background.
• Rehearse carefully. Practice while looking in a mirror or record yourself. Talking out loud will help you determine if your speech sounds natural.
• Invite feedback. Ask friends to let you practice on them. Use their suggestions and questions to make adjustments. You may need to speak more slowly or translate industry jargon into language that’s easier to understand.
• Stay up to date. Review your pitch on a regular basis. There may be buzzwords that grow stale over time and need to be replaced. Also, you may have earned new credentials that you want to include.
• Spend time listening. Watch for the other person’s reactions and listen to their comments. Ideally, you’ll open up a two-way conversation. Pick someone you admire and pay attention to the way they introduce themselves. It could give you some worthwhile ideas.
• Exude confidence. Start out with a firm handshake as long as it’s appropriate for the setting and situation. Radiate enthusiasm. Hold your head up high and smile. Make eye contact for a few seconds.
• Be prepared. You can use your speech for more than just job interviews. Keep it in mind when you’re at cocktail parties, soccer games, or shopping malls. It’s possible you’ll bump into someone who may have a lead on the kind of position you are seeking.
• Remember to follow up. Think of your pitch as the first step in a longer process. Hand out and collect business cards. Suggest getting together for coffee to continue a discussion.

An effective elevator pitch entices people’s curiosity and makes them want to hear more. Formulate an elevator pitch to tell the employers why hiring you is the right decision.

If you only reach out to your contacts when you’re looking for a job, you may be disappointed with the results.
It’s easy to get busy with other things and realize you’ve fallen out of touch with important colleagues. At the same time, it’s natural for your contacts to be less than enthusiastic if they only hear from you when you’re asking for a favor.

Regular communication will strengthen your relationships, and there are steps you can take if you’ve been somewhat inattentive in the past. Try these tips for heating up your network.

​1. APOLOGIZE SINCERELY.
Start out by acknowledging your lapse, especially if you’ve neglected to return phone calls. If someone is gracious enough to forgive, ensure you’re considerate in the future.

2. START CLOSE TO HOME.
You’re surrounded by opportunities to practice your networking skills and make new contacts. Look for leads among those you interact with daily, including coworkers or other contacts.

3. DO SOME RESEARCH.
Find out whether someone has changed jobs or gotten married since you last spoke. Check LinkedIn or mutual friends. You’ll be more prepared for your first conversation. You will find below a number of instructional LinkedIn videos for the same purpose.

4. MEET FACE-TO-FACE.
Digital communications are convenient but personal interactions make a deeper impression. Circulate offline as much as possible. Attend industry events and invite others out for coffee or lunch.

5. STAY INFORMED.
Your conversation will be more interesting if you know what’s happening in your field and the wider world. Read books, watch movies, and engage in deep conversations.

6. GIVE MORE.
You’ve probably heard that successful networking is about being generous. You can help others by sending articles, making referrals, or just sharing an encouraging word.

1. BE SELECTIVE.
Quality matters more than quantity. You’re more likely to cultivate authentic relationships if you prioritize. Figure out who your key contacts are and devote most of your time and energy to them.

2. CREATE A SYSTEM.
Networking is also easier when you’re organized. That might mean scanning business cards or creating a whole database.

3. BLOCK OUT TIME.
Put networking on your daily or weekly calendar. You could set aside a half hour in the morning to make phone calls or set a goal for eating lunch with one of your contacts at least once a week.

4. INCREASE YOUR VISIBILITY.
Public speaking, teaching, and publishing on topics related to your career will also give you opportunities to make new contacts and refresh old ones. Check with your local community college or contact the organizers for an upcoming industry event.

5. OFFER CONGRATULATIONS.
Most of your contacts will be delighted to hear from you if you express a genuine interest in their lives and appreciation for their achievements. Relay your good wishes when you hear someone has been promoted or landed a major account.

6. SEND HOLIDAY GREETINGS.
You can take advantage of official holidays such as Thanksgiving or even unofficial holidays such as National Spaghetti Day as they can all be an occasion for reaching out to your colleagues. Try personalizing your message for your key contacts and creating a more general version you can use with contacts who you interact with less frequently.

7. TAKE TIME OFF.
Scheduling periodic breaks from networking may help you to stay motivated and balanced. You may want to forget about business when you take time off.
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