In my business, I am constantly working with people who are – for one reason or another – unhappy with their job. In many cases, the reasons are valid, but the #1 mistake they make is letting an unpleasant employment experience cloud their judgement, and impact their future job decisions.

Just because you don’t like the way things are done in your current role doesn’t mean you would not be happy in a parallel function, maybe under a better manager or in a more positive work environment. 

Here are three keys to consider:

1. Am I setting appropriate boundaries? In an increasingly lean environment, you need to be vigilant about ensuring that you are giving 110% but within reasonable expectations. It is important for you to remain engaged at work and at home – this is all part of your professional value add. The healthier and happier you are, the more productive you will be on the job.
2. Have you addressed your concerns in a positive and proactive manner? Don’t wait until you are so mad that you explode. Give your manager the courtesy of having a well- thought out plan and ideas for improvement before you head out the door.
3. Can you reframe your negativity by focusing on the long term benefit? So maybe you hate the project you were just assigned. Does it enable you to learn a new skill or add something new to your resume?

When you are looking for a new job, it’s important that you also manage your current position to maximize the value you can take away from it. As you write your resume, or work with a career expert, your positivity will shine through.

At the end of the day, that’s what a hiring manager is looking for. Just like a date, we are drawn to happy, well-adjusted, enthusiastic people. So get the good vibes going!