According to a survey published a few years ago in Canadian Living, Toronto is among the happiest cities in Canada. That may be true, but does that mean you are happy at your job? Not necessarily.

People throughout the area — some unhappy at work, others fairly content — are contemplating changing jobs for any number of reasons. Those who don’t enjoy their work are looking to end the drudgery while those who are comfortable may be hoping for something new and exciting or a job with better pay.

Although many employees think about a new job that will ultimately ensure their happiness, fewer take the plunge. Why? There is an element of risk involved with this life-changing move. Without a crystal ball, it’s impossible to know if the move will be forward, lateral or, worst of all, backward.

Here are a few things to consider as you make this important decision:

Look at the size of the company

Medium-sized companies (50 to 499 employees) have added seventy percent more new jobs than large companies in 2016 — 122,000 to 72,000! Companies with under fifty employees added 104,000 jobs. If you’re concerned about job security, these figures are enlightening.

Consider the industry

Manufacturing and construction have added 87,000 fewer jobs this year when compared to service-related opportunities such as education, financial, and leisure and hospitality. Something to think about if you’re looking to leave your teaching job to earn more money doing construction work in Hamilton.

Factor in your age

Older workers (55 and over) risk earning less money and receiving smaller increases by switching jobs. On the other hand, if you’re  25 or under, you have a much better chance at wage growth — whether you stay at your current job or move on.

Maybe you should stay where you are

Sometimes, you can make changes at your present job to increase your happiness. Get to know your supervisor. Becoming more engaged can increase your job fulfillment and save you the risk of changing jobs. This technique won’t always work, but it may be worth the effort.

Ready to make that change?

We can help. Get in touch with HCR Personnel Solutions, a leading manufacturing recruitment agency in Canada that recruits top professionals for exceptional career opportunities.