How to navigate “The Great Resignation” and come out on top

December 01, 2022

Despite the challenges the UK jobs market has faced during the pandemic, this summer the UK finally welcomed a glimmer of hope as the UK labour market started to show signs of recovery and return to how it was, pre-covid.

However, whilst the pandemic saw unemployment at a record high due to many organisations reducing their headcount as a result of uncertainty in the market, we are now seeing a new trend which is seeing almost one in four UK workers actively planning to leave their current role by choice. This emerging trend has been prompted by “The Great Resignation”, which has recently hit the UK.

The Great Resignation is a widespread trend which has seen a significant amount of workers leave their current role to join another organisation, explore a new market or to in fact, retire.

So, why the sudden influx of voluntary redundancies? There are a large proportion of people who have blamed Covid-19 for this new trend, as the pandemic has given workers the opportunity to reflect where they currently work, their work/life balance and long-term goals.

Recent data from ONS figures show that almost one million workers switched jobs over the summer, while vacancies increased to 1.3 million. But the question is why are job seekers choosing now to resign?

As the economy continues to recover, jobseekers now have the opportunity to switch jobs by choice and work for an organisation that truly reflects their values and qualities. This also means that they now have the upper hand when it comes to their job search allowing them to demand better hours, pay and a work-life balance suited to their requirements.

So, as jobseekers continue to remain in the driving seat, how can you use “The Great Resignation” phenomenon to your advantage when considering a new role?

Network in your market 

Expand your current network by connecting with specialist agencies within the Not for Profit sector. At Hunter Merrifield, we have many experienced recruitment consultants who know their market inside out and can present you with the best opportunities and guidance needed to navigate this crowded market.

List the non-negotiables 

We now live in a world where you can now build your career around your lifestyle, instead of the other way round. So, when you are considering new organisations and even new markets, be clear with yourself on what you are and are not willing to accept. Did you previously commute in 5 days a week and are now looking for a hybrid working pattern? Perhaps you are used to a 60-hour working week and would prefer to switch to part-time?

Make sure you write a list of the non-negotiables you require in a new role and the factors that you are happy to compromise on. Be clear and honest with yourself, as interviewing is time consuming for both you and the organisation, so don’t waste yours on an opportunity that can’t give you what you need.

Understanding your why

Why are you really open to a new role? Is it for a salary increase, work-life balance or perhaps your current employer is unable to provide you with the support you need to progress? Whatever the reason, be clear with yourself on why you are looking for a new position and ask yourself if this is something that your current company can fix. If they can’t, then it’s time to get yourself on the market and see what opportunities are out there.

Consider a new industry 

Looking for a new job can be a daunting process and feel like a full-time job in itself, but it doesn’t have to be! With now being the best time for candidates to consider a new job, why not consider a new career path too?

This could be your chance to finally pursue a job in a field that you’ve always thought about. As there is currently such a shortage of workers, many companies are willing to look past the need for experience and instead, train new employees.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity by lacking the confidence to apply. Get yourself on the job boards and start looking for your dream position and go for it! You never know what will come of it.

At Merrifield Consultants, we can confidently provide you with the best opportunities and work to ensure that your next career move is the right one.

If you are interested in having a confidential conversation with a member of the team regarding this topic, then please get in touch. We would love to help!