Go from Happy to Happier

Brandon Gutman 06/04/08

When clients retain us as an executive search firm, they expect us to recruit stellar candidates. Stellar candidates are typically the ones who have a job and aren’t proactively seeking new opportunities (this does not mean that someone who might not be in a job currently isn’t fabulous). In order for a recruiter to be successful in engaging a happy individual, they must uncover “the happier factor.” Even if you’re happy now, the most successful professionals are those who challenge themselves to be happier. There’s always an opportunity on the horizon, and while celebrities have agents, rock star businesspeople need to manage their own careers. I’ve outlined five of the most common factors that can lead you from happy to happier.

Opportunity for Growth

Today’s top talent usually becomes tomorrow’s leaders. Companies like P&G and News Corp do a terrific job of breeding and training executives. However, some of these larger sized companies can only do so much promoting. You, as an employee, need to determine at what point your rise to advancement is going to decrease or halt. For example, if you’re a Marketing Director with substantial experience and there’s a very comfortable VP above you, it might be time to open up for a change.

Bigger Challenges

Our firm recently recruited the VP of Sales at a major brand to become the sales leader of a startup. The person’s primary reason for taking the position was not the equity the startup was offering. It wasn’t for the larger comp package. This “A” player wanted to roll up their sleeves and build something great. Complacency was starting to settle into their former role and this go–getter needed to shake themselves up.

Fun and Culture

Most leading executives spend a lot more time at work than home. If that’s true, shouldn’t they be having a ton of fun in their job? How much do you laugh in the office? Do you want to hang out with your coworkers outside of business? If you do the dance of joy before leaving on holiday, it might be time for a new home. When considering a move, really check under the hood by meeting all key staff and asking the tough questions. Remember that if you’re not happy in your current situation, you probably won’t be much happier in a similar situation. Do your due diligence and go with your gut.

Continuous Learning

Top talent is constantly looking to step up their intellectual property. You need to work for companies that are either driving change or committed to following it. If you feel your employer is ahead of the curve but your position isn’t, sit down with them to determine a larger challenge. Smart leadership understands that human capital is its most sacred asset. They should do whatever it takes to make their best people happier. If you’re not getting what you need, start listening to other options.

Show the Money

We often find that money is the last reason for someone’s motivation to change jobs. After all, we’re talking about executives who are at the top of their game. However, compensation does become a factor when a professional realizes that they’ve been drastically underpaid. In these scenarios it’s common that the existing employer matches the outside offer or even raises it substantially, depending on how devoted they are to retaining the person. You can keep tabs on your market value by talking with a recruiter you trust.

It may be time to ask yourself: are you happy? Remember, you can always be happier.