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It’s common advice to never quit a job without another one lined up, but the reality for many workers’ situations isn’t that simple. Fair or unfair, hiring managers are often hesitant to consider unemployed candidates, but when you’re working, you may not have the time or motivation to really devote to your job search. If you’re trying to decide if it’s better to quit before you have another job lined up, consider the pros and cons of getting a job when you already have one:

Benefits of Being Employed During Your Job Search:

  • Updated Skills

Being employed while looking for a job indicates to hiring managers that you not only have experience with necessary professional skills, but they aren’t outdated. Having freshly utilized skills makes it easier to get a job because you won’t need much training to acclimate.

  • More Networking Opportunities

When you’re employed, you will have more contact with other people than if you’re not working. Being around other people makes it easier to network and get job leads and personal referrals.

  • Increased Confidence

Confidence is key to promoting yourself. Being out of the workforce puts you at a greater risk of losing confidence if you don’t hear back. If you’re already working, you won’t take it to heart as much if you don’t land a job right away.

  • Have More Leverage

You’re in a better position to negotiate employment terms if you’re already employed while job searching. Since you have a current source of income, you won’t have to make decisions out of desperation and settle for less than you feel you’re worth.

When It’s Okay to Quit Your Job Without Another Lined Up:

  • Your Health Is Suffering

Quitting to focus on landing a new job is definitely acceptable if the stress or working conditions of your job are negatively affecting your health.

  • Your Current Workplace is Toxic

If your job has abusive management, bullying co-workers or is an otherwise dysfunctional workplace, leaving before you find another job may be preferable long term. A toxic workplace can negatively impact your motivation to do good work, and decrease your self-esteem, making it harder to find a new job.

  • Your Job is All-Consuming

Some jobs require so much time and energy that you have little left for job searching. In that instance, you may not have the ability to pursue other jobs while working there, so leaving and devoting all of that time to job searching may be more effective.

  • You Have a Financial Buffer

There’s no way to predict just how long it will take to find a new job. Review your financial obligations and see if you have enough savings to last in the event of an extended period without income. If so, leaving your job in order to apply for other ones, and making yourself more marketable (such as continuing education, volunteering, or temp/contract work) may be plausible.

If you’re encountering challenges job searching on your own, consider teaming up with Ethan Allen Workforce Solutions. Since 1969, Ethan Allen Workforce Solutions has been connecting job seekers in the Hudson Valley with opportunities with our wide assortment of area employers. We offer a variety of staffing services, from temporary to direct hire.  Search jobs online to get started finding your next opportunity.