Should I Consider Changing Roles or Am I Just Yearning for Something Different?
Hey everyone! I’m about 2.5 years into my first job and really enjoy it, but I feel like things have become a bit too easy and relaxed.
I work as an allocator in the asset management division of a bank, managing a book of mostly low-touch clients based on our CIO’s strategy. I do have some high-touch clients, and I meet with them quarterly to review market performance, investment outlook, and our allocation strategies. While busy during that review period, the rest of my time is largely spent on tasks like rebalancing accounts, initiating trades, monitoring dashboards, and ensuring compliance with investment policies. Honestly, I find myself “working” only about 1-2 hours a day.
Currently, my compensation is $85k, with a promotion likely coming up in August.
However, I’ve been feeling that, despite being fully remote, I’m missing out on the deeper aspects of working in finance. I take remote work seriously, but I think I’d benefit from more social interaction and client engagement. My first internship had me shadowing, networking, and attending client dinners, which I enjoyed immensely, even though I wasn’t doing much analytical work.
Now, I’m looking at some wealth management roles in my area that offer a bit higher compensation and require being in the office. I’m eager to enhance my sales skills, and these positions seem like a great blend of my investment knowledge and the relationship-building skills I want to develop.
Am I being impulsive for considering a change from my current role? I’m also somewhat apprehensive about switching companies given the current job market. What do you all think?
One response
It’s understandable to feel torn about whether to stay in a comfortable role or pursue something that might provide more growth and engagement. Here are a few points to consider:
Assess Your Long-Term Goals: Think about where you see yourself in the next few years. If your goal is to develop stronger relationship skills and work more closely with clients, a wealth management role could align better with those aspirations.
Growth vs. Comfort: Your current position offers comfort, but if it feels stagnant, it might be worth exploring options that challenge you. Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and if you feel that the current role isn’t pushing you, a change may be beneficial.
Networking and Social Interaction: Since you enjoyed the client-facing aspects during your internship, returning to a role with more client interaction could enhance your career satisfaction. Building relationships and networking in person can lead to new opportunities and insights.
Industry Climate: While the current job market can be challenging, focusing on your transferable skills and strengths can help position you as a valuable candidate. Researching companies and speaking to current employees can provide insight into job stability and culture.
Trial and Error: If you’re really interested in potential roles, consider applying and interviewing to see what the market is offering. This can give you a better perspective on what’s out there and help you make an informed decision without fully committing yet.
Evaluate Financial Implications: While compensation is an important factor, consider the overall benefits and job satisfaction. A slightly higher salary might not always be worth it if the job doesn’t align with your interests and career goals.
Ultimately, listen to your instincts and consider whether the potential benefits of a new role outweigh the comfort of your current position. Making a change can be daunting, but it can also propel you toward the growth and experiences you’re looking for. Good luck!