Is now the right time for your next career move?
- Salling Search
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
Most career moves begin with a conversation, a new opportunity, or a frustrating period at work. The challenge is knowing whether it's the right time to make a move.
Before accepting your next opportunity, it's worth considering two things: whether you are personally ready and whether the market is working in your favour.
Are you moving toward something or away from something?
Before making any career move, ask yourself one simple question. Am I moving toward an opportunity, or away from a situation?
It's natural to want to leave a difficult manager, a stagnant culture, or a role that no longer feels fulfilling. But if your main reason for moving is to escape your current situation, you may find yourself facing similar frustrations elsewhere.
Instead, focus on what you're looking for. Is it broader responsibilities? More commercial exposure? A stronger leadership team? Better long-term career prospects?
The clearer you are about what you want, the easier it becomes to recognise the right opportunity when it comes along.
Is the market working in your favour?
Your readiness is only part of the equation. Timing matters too.
When demand for your experience is strong, you have more options. That gives you greater choice, stronger negotiating power, and the ability to be selective rather than simply accepting what's available.
In the maritime and shipping industry, hiring demand isn't always consistent. Some functions and markets are more active than others, and understanding where your experience fits can make a meaningful difference to the opportunities available.
That doesn't mean waiting for the "perfect" market. It means understanding whether current conditions are likely to strengthen your position or limit your options.
As specialist recruiters in maritime, shipping, oil & gas, and logistics, we have visibility into the market from both the employer and candidate perspectives. Sometimes the best advice is to move. Sometimes it's to wait.
Three questions to ask yourself
Before deciding whether to move or stay, take a moment to reflect:
Have I genuinely outgrown my current role?
A difficult quarter or temporary slowdown isn't always a reason to leave. But if you've achieved what you set out to achieve, your responsibilities have stopped expanding, and there's no clear path for further growth, it may be time to consider what's next.
What does my next role need to offer?
Think beyond salary and job title. Consider the scope of the role, the leadership team, the company's direction, and the opportunities for long-term development.
Is this a good market for someone with my experience?
The right opportunity depends not only on your readiness but also on market demand. A specialist recruiter should be able to give you an honest assessment of where you stand and whether now is the right time to make a move.
The best career decisions aren't made in the moment. They are made with a clear understanding of your goals, your timing, and the opportunities available.
At Salling Search, we specialise in executive search across the maritime, shipping, oil & gas, and logistics sectors. If you're considering your next move and would like an honest perspective on your options, we would be happy to have a conversation! ✨
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