Deciding Your Role in the Historic "Great Resignation"

Photo by Mimi Thian on Unsplash

I have been thinking a lot today about "The Great Resignation" and what that means especially for women. I feel like every day I see someone else on LinkedIn saying how they are excited to announce their new role. When experiencing "stuck" energy at the workplace, I can see the appeal of walking away. Especially in toxic environments, leaving what no longer serves you can be a  huge step towards improving your mental health. You feel like this step puts you firmly in control of your reality. 

Should You Stay or Should You Go? 

This is a tough one, and no one can make that decision for you. I have heard many colleagues over my 11+ years across multiple startups and industries talking about this difficult choice. Stay where the challenges are familiar, or start someplace new where the challenges are unknown. Wherever you are employed, there will be challenges, something that I think is easy to lose sight of in a moment of frustration. 

But I truly believe that in this job market, there is hope. Companies are more willing to make accommodations for working women and especially mothers. If you are considering making the leap, it is my hope that not only do you do some soul-searching on where it is you truly want to be, but make sure you are asking-really, demanding-what you are worth: 

• At LEAST $10k base salary increase: do your research to know your value, but don't be afraid to give that high number! (PS you can also ask for a raise or promotion at your current role)
• Ask about a signing bonus and annual performance bonus opportunities
• If they can't match your desired salary, ask for more perks like title bump, more / unlimited PTO, dedicated working from home days, etc. 
• Also request a salary discussion after 6 months to a year if the job responsibilities balloon
• Make the case for an intern or to grow your team if you get swamped

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Your Personal Reckoning: How You Want to Be Seen vs. Seeing Yourself

I think what this really boils down to for many of us is self-realization and understanding. Being honest with yourself and transparent with what you want out of a role, out of your job, and how you want to manage that against your family life is important here. For me, the narrative of ambition did change when I became a mother: and with this phase in my life, I know it's temporary and I had to forgive myself for easing up. There's more to life than work, as you'll probably realize (perhaps too late) on your deathbed. Your family can't replace its time with you, but you can be replaced by your company. 

Are you moving on? Grab this interview guide to help you get there.