January is the perfect month to make moves in 2025 – our data tell us that job seeker activity is 11% higher than average. We thought, who better to guide your new year career transition than our new Chief Worklife Expert, Adam Grant? As a renowned workplace champion, Grant will share his tried-and-true worklife tips throughout the year to help you navigate career changes. To start, let’s talk career pivots.
Back story: In a recent Glassdoor Community poll*, we asked, “Are you considering a career pivot or switching industries in 2025?” Half of workers (50%) said yes, and another 32% said maybe. With an overwhelming number of professionals considering a job switch, we had to tap Grant to weigh in with his best advice.
What he says: While it may be enticing to start a new career in the new year, Grant says there are a few things to consider before getting serious about your job search:
1. Don't be afraid to leave. But don't assume the grass is always greener outside.
2. Remember that transitions can take a toll.
3. Before you quit your job, make sure you've explored all the avenues for crafting your job.
“If you have a more ideal image of your job that you want to create, map it out,” says Grant when it comes to job crafting. “Go to your boss, go to a couple of colleagues, and say, ‘Here’s what I’d love to be doing. Here’s how I think it might add value. Can we create a scenario where I get to do that at least as 5-10% of my time?’”
Going deeper: A heightened sentiment of employees feeling stuck could be a warning for employers of more attrition to come as the tide begins to slowly shift back to employees this year. On the other hand, workers who choose to stay may be exploring an industry switch or turning to other income streams, like side hustles and entrepreneurship, as mentioned in our Worklife Trends reports.
Another thing: In addition to Grant’s considerations, Glassdoor Community members offered their thoughts on what to keep in mind when making a career transition. Among their top considerations were finding the right leadership and pushing fear aside.
Check out the Career Pivot bowl for more tips from fellow job seekers if you’re considering a career change.
*Methodology: This poll ran from December 13, 2024 through December 16, 2024, and was answered by over 3,000 U.S. professionals. Respondents could answer with either “Yes,”, “No, ” or “Maybe” to the question, “Are you considering a career pivot or switching industries in 2025?” For subgroup breakouts including age, gender identity, and industry, all categories received at least 100 responses from U.S. professionals on the platform.