There was a time when job-hopping was a reliable route to better pay and a promotion, but that’s not the case anymore. After the pandemic, employers had no choice but to pay top dollar to attract workers. Today, budgets have been slashed, and positions have been eliminated making opportunities to change jobs scarce. Companies that once recruited externally to fill openings are now promoting from within. If job-hopping is no longer a viable path to higher-pay and a new challenge, what can frustrated workers do to move forward?

If you are unhappy in your job and your search for new employment has been unsuccessful, the best thing you could do right now is pause your efforts temporarily. Instead, turn your attention to your mental health and wellness. People always say that it takes more energy to be negative than it does to be positive, but that isn’t true. Negative thoughts come easily to most people whereas positivity requires effort but comes with a payout.

A constructive perspective on your current position may reveal solutions to the problems you feel are limiting you, and help you develop fresh ideas you can pitch to your boss. Clients you once thought of as difficult may warm on you once you realize their behavior isn’t about you but rather whatever they are dealing with in the moment. 

Employers know who their problem employees are. They notice how workers respond to feedback and interact with colleagues. If you are hoping for a raise or promotion you need to separate your personal feelings about your employer from the work, and don’t join in when co-workers complain about the boss in the breakroom. Be polite and professional to everyone, and focus on performing your duties to the best of your ability so you’ll be in a stronger position when an opportunity for advancement arises.