When it comes to changing roles – or even just thinking about it – all too often we jump headfirst into CV updates and application writing. Activity is enticing. The process is laid out in front of us and it's easy to get swept along.
But what if we paused first to think about what we're really looking for? Are we moving towards a new challenge and greater growth, or are we trying to escape a difficult situation or fix an underlying issue? Sometimes it's worth taking a step back and giving yourself the space to hear yourself think.
So before you put in that application, here are five coaching questions to get you started.
Why are you considering leaving now?
Think about what has changed over the last three to six months. What is driving your desire to move? Are you looking for greater responsibility, fresh challenge or better reward? Or are you simply burnt out or frustrated in your current role? If the frustrating part of your job improved tomorrow, would you still want to leave ?
This should help you assess how far your desired move is strategic or reactive.
What evidence do you already have that you can succeed in the next role?
When we think about stepping up into a new role, it can be tempting to focus on the gaps we see in our skills rather than our strengths. This question encourages you to identify your career successes, unconstrained by the requirements of the role you're considering.
If you were to think about your career as a series of newspaper headlines, what would they say? Which achievements would make the front page? What would those headlines reveal about your capabilities, values and the impact you've had on others?
If you're struggling to answer, think beyond promotions and job titles. Consider the problems you've solved, the change you've led, the people you've influenced, the crises you've navigated and the moments when colleagues sought out your advice, trusted you with greater responsibility or adopted your blueprint for change. These are often the strongest indicators of your readiness for the next step, even if they don't appear on your CV.
What kind of role and environment brings out your best work?
Think about the times you've most enjoyed your work. What was it about those experiences that energised you? Do you thrive on autonomy and visibility? Do you prefer clarity and structure, or are you happiest navigating ambiguity? Do you enjoy a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, or one that allows more time for reflection? Do you enjoy working horizontally across government, or do you prefer more vertical, specialist roles? And how important is people leadership to you?
It’s worth reflecting on these questions, as sometimes a “better” job on paper can still be a bad move if it puts you in a working environment or culture that jars with who you are and how you work best.
What part of your hesitation is wisdom , what part is fear?
The naughty gremlin on your shoulder will almost certainly tell you that change is a bad idea. Fear has a habit of disguising itself as prudence.
Try writing down every concern you have and challenge each one in turn. How likely is it to happen? If it did, what would you do? What practical steps could you take to reduce the risk – more information, better preparation, conversations with others or interview practice?
Finally, ask yourself – if fear wasn't making the decision, what would I do next?
5. What’s the next smallest step that you can take to give more clarity?
Remember you don’t have to solve the entire career question in one go! It might take time to come to a final decision. In the meantime, you could, for example, consider updating the CV, telling your career stories to a close friend, talking to colleagues in those stretch roles, or directly asking your manager about progression where you are. Actions like these might help you visualise and decide on your next move.
Good luck!
Clare Dobson is an independent policy consultant. She is a former senior civil servant with over 20 years’ experience of policymaking