11th October 2024

Four Key Factors to Consider Before Leaving a Failing Workplace

After a major downturn or organizational failure, professionals must consider several key factors before deciding whether to stay or leave. These include the stability and effectiveness of new leadership, personal value within the organization, the impact on their personal brand, and the potential for new career opportunities. Taking time to reflect on personal goals, strengths, and future options can lead to a more fulfilling career path.

This article was written by Cary Cooper and published in The Conversation.

Over the last few weeks, after a massive defeat at the UK general election, several senior staff in the Conservative Party have reportedly taken voluntary redundancy, with more staff cuts expected to follow. Perhaps not surprising, as morale is not likely to be high. But it raises an interesting and broader career development question: is it better to leave an organisation in decline or which has suffered a major downturn? Or are there benefits to staying with it?

There are four main questions when it comes to deciding our career path after our organisation has undergone a major business failure, downturn or adverse event.

1. What’s happening in leadership?

First, we need to consider: will the old leadership remain in their positions? The likelihood is that they will be replaced, so the next thing to assess is if the new leadership is likely to be more resilient and successful than the former leaders.

Authentic and engaging leaders are more effective, and tend to get the most out of their subordinates, and retain them longer within the organisation. As Lao Tzu, founder of the Taoist religion, reflected on leadership: “A leader is best when people barely know he exists. When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, people will say, ‘we did it ourselves’!”

2. Am I valued?

More important than what’s happening to the leadership is: will they be more or less likely to value my contribution and skills? That is to say, do I see greater opportunities in the medium to long term by staying rather than leaving?

This, of course, may require staying put for a while, to assess the new management and what opportunities come your way. This reflection period will help you consider your future career decisions. As Renaissance polymath Leonardo da Vinci wrote: “To remain constantly at work will diminish your judgement. Go some distance away, because work will be in perspective and a lack of harmony is more readily seen.”

3. What’s the damage?

Then you need to consider whether your “personal brand” has been damaged by being associated with the failed organisation. If you think it has, than leaving may not be the optimal solution, because it may be very difficult getting a job, particularly in the short term.

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