Why you should occasionally apply for a new job (even if you don't want to leave)

Most people see applying for jobs as a necessary step when they are ready for a new challenge or are no longer happy in their current job. But what if you did not see applying for a job as a necessity, but as a strategic move to keep your career in your own hands? Even if you are very happy in your current job, it is smart to interview every now and then. Not because you necessarily want to leave, but because it gives you insights that will help you grow in the long run. Global talent solutions specialist Robert Walters gives five reasons why you should keep doing job interviews from time to time - even without concrete plans to leave. 

1. You get a realistic picture of your market value  

Many professionals work for years with the same employer without really knowing their worth in the job market. Your salary might increase by a few percent every year, but do you know if that is in line with what other organisations pay for your profile and experience?  

By going through an application process from time to time, you will discover how other employers rate your skills and experience.

Do you get a great offer right away? Then you know you are valuable. Are lower stakes than you expect? Then it might be time to develop new skills or negotiate a pay rise with your current employer.  

2. You stay abreast of trends and developments in your sector  

The job market is changing rapidly. Jobs that did not exist five years ago are now suddenly in demand. Employers are looking for different skills today than ten years ago. By talking to recruiters and hiring managers, you will discover which skills are in demand and which career opportunities you might be overlooking.  

Moreover, you will learn which companies are progressive and which are more likely to stick to old habits. This can help you make the right career choices in the long run.  

3. You sharpen your application and negotiation skills  

Many people do not apply for jobs until they have decided they want to leave. That means they may not have practiced their application skills - preparing CVs, writing cover letters, pitching themselves, negotiating salaries - for years.  

Applying regularly will keep you comfortable with these processes. You will learn how employers approach interviews today, what questions to expect and how best to sell yourself. Negotiation interviews also go more smoothly if you have already practiced in a setting where you feel less pressure.  

4. You get more insight into your job satisfaction  

Sometimes you only realise how good your current job is when you look elsewhere. Or just how stuck you are in a situation that is not ideal. Applying for a job helps you think consciously about what you find important in your work and what energises you.  

Maybe you’ll discover that your company actually offers quite a few benefits that you have come to take for granted. Or maybe you realise that you are secretly ready for a new challenge, but that you have never dared to admit it out loud.  

5. You build valuable connections for later  

Not every application needs to lead to a job offer right away. Sometimes you have a good conversation with a hiring manager or recruiter, and they keep your profile in mind for future opportunities. Who knows, maybe that company will call you in a year's time with an offer you can't refuse.  

In addition, you expand your professional network through job interviews. The people you talk to may later prove to be valuable contacts, whether for a future position or for collaborations within your sector.

More information

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