A Harvard Business Review article gave an overview of 4 job change “quests”.
They linked the quests to “why people quit their job”.
However, I’m thinking they also apply to job changes.
Here are the 4 Quests:
Get Out – Employees want to get out of their current situation.
Regain Control – They want to re-establish control of their work and life.
Regain Alignment – Employees want their work to better fit their knowledge and capabilities.
Take the Next Step – Moving their career forward.
My Perspective
There are two things I like about this insight.
First, I like the term quests – I’ve used this before and think it’s reflective of our life journeys.
Second there are the different reasons employees (you) may be looking for something new.
People don’t quit or get unsettled in their role for no reason.
This structure can help employees identify what the current challenge is that they are facing.
Knowing the quest in progress will help define the next steps to take.
Often when an employee wants to quit, an organization will offer more money for them to stay.
The challenge is that the money may not be the gap they are looking to fill.
In fact, none of the four quests above mention money.
I see dissatisfaction.
Lack of balance.
Need to leverage strengths.
And career progress.
For those who may be feeling unsettled in their role right now these quests may help.
If we can pinpoint the quest, we can talk to our leadership about it.
Let them know how we are feeling and determine if there are options within the company.
The conversation can center on the work and role before it’s too late.
Your Turn
Have you felt unsettled in your role?
Can you pinpoint which of the 4 quests you were on?
What steps would you take in the future if you recognize this happening?