So, you've had a good year, work-wise. Your company has had a good year, financially. Your year-end review was not bad (could have been better), and now, you have to decide: Should you stay, or should you move on?

A quick look at salaries and growth trends points to a disturbing fact—movement creates growth. Sometimes, it even leads to 3X salary jumps. People who stay in one company for a long(ish) time tend to be underpaid compared to those who leave and return.

So, if money is a key concern, or at least an important metric, then yes. If you have been in your current role or company for three years, without a promotion or a meaningful increase in responsibilities, it may be time to move.

Now, some reading this might think, "Of course, an HR consulting and executive recruitment firm would say this. The more people who move, the more business for them." Fair point. But here’s what we advise:

Look at the career journeys of people you admire—batchmates, colleagues, even your boss. What did they do to get where they are? If your research shows an average three-year tenure before a jump, then you have your answer. If not, trust what you find out and what works for you. Ignore us.

The best insights are the ones you discover for yourself. Ask a mentor. Hell, even ask your boss.

Why Do People Really Move?

You don’t change jobs just for the money. That’s a by-product. You move for growth, new challenges, learning, better processes, exposure to best practices, politics (yes, that too), culture, fresh ideas, inspiration, new connections... the list goes on.

The Big Question: Stay or Move?

Let’s make this easier. Answer these:

You got promoted AND like the new role → Stay
You didn’t get promoted AND don’t think it was fair → Move
Your salary hike is double the company average → Stay
Your increment is lower than inflation → Move
Your boss is someone you admire and learn from → Stay
Your boss is the reason you are unhappy → Move
The company culture makes you feel energized → Stay
You feel stagnant, like you’re just going through the motions → Move

Do a quick tally. If it’s mostly Stay, great. If it’s mostly Move, then start considering your options.

But Wait… Do You Even Have an Offer?

Before you get restless, check the market. Is there a place where you can move? A role you would genuinely enjoy? A company willing to pay you what you believe is fair for your contribution?

Oh, and almost forgot to sell you our service: Don’t worry—it’s free! We make money when we help you land your next opportunity.