Chinese people often share similar habits, even when it comes to resigning—many choose to leave after the Lunar New Year. Recently, two young employees at my company handed in their notices: one found another job, while the other plans to prepare for graduate school exams. In Shenzhen, resignations occur almost daily across every company, creating an atmosphere that feels somewhat restless.
Everyone has their reasons for leaving. From a broader societal perspective, China's rapid GDP growth not only fuels development across industries but also offers today's youth a wealth of job opportunities. This "grass is always greener" mentality makes young people feel invincible.Often, after just one or two years at a company, an employee considers themselves a seasoned professional. They might casually walk away at the slightest provocation—a slightly higher salary, a marginally better position, or even minor dissatisfaction with their current employer.In contrast, overseas, someone with only 1-2 years in a role would never presume to call themselves a professional. They often need many years in that position just to earn a promotion opportunity. Due to social norms and employment conditions, they are far less likely to quit so readily. As an employer, I prefer employees who truly settle in, learn extensively in their role, and thoroughly prepare for the future—because opportunity favors the prepared.
For individuals, frequent job-hopping can severely disrupt career planning and development. Overseas, not only are employment opportunities scarcer than in China, but rash resignations can jeopardize social benefits like unemployment insurance. Meanwhile, our newly revised labor laws offer extensive protections to employees, leaving them unaware of the credibility risks frequent job changes may pose to their careers.
Most job-hoppers cite reasons like their previous company not valuing their talents or failing to provide sufficient growth opportunities. But have we ever asked ourselves: Did we actively pursue those opportunities?In my experience, opportunities and room for growth are earned. If you believe you possess the capability for higher-level responsibilities, demonstrate your competence fully. You can also directly propose this to your boss. How do you know your boss isn't waiting for your initiative, waiting for you to voice your aspirations? To a boss, a subordinate who understands their own capabilities is far more valuable than one who merely obeys orders.
Unfortunately, very few people take this approach today. This likely stems from our upbringing—from school to parents, we're taught to be obedient children, to follow the lead of superiors, teachers, and elders. Consequently, we often shy away from expressing ourselves and showcasing our abilities.Have you noticed that the so-called "bad kids" who didn't follow the rules often end up being the most successful adults?
Finally, if you're considering a job change or already in the process, please think through these questions first: 1. Do you truly understand yourself? What are your goals? Do you know the path to achieving them?2. Do you truly understand your current company? Are you aware of its future plans? 3. Do you know the new company? A French saying about marriage applies equally well to careers: You know what you're leaving behind, but you don't know what you're heading toward. Before you're uncertain about the opportunities you're giving up and where you're going, think carefully.