What is Motivating Your Job Search?

Karen Thompson • July 23, 2018

If changing jobs is high on your priority list, you have some serious thinking to do. Self-analysis is vital in career planning and one thing you should do before you make any move is assess is your motivation. Why do you want to do something different?

Think about the ‘push and pull’ factors as they relate to your situation. Push factors are those things that are pushing you away from your current role and may include:

  • Your boss drives you crazy
  • The hours you’re working don’t give you enough free time
  • You’re feeling undervalued and/or underpaid
  • The two-hour daily commute is wearing you down
  • There’s absolutely no chance of promotion
  • There is no challenge left

Pull factors are those that pull you towards a new role. Things like:

  • The company has an amazing reputation as an employer
  • You’ll be working with an inspiring industry leader/mentor
  • The company’s client list is outstanding
  • Great benefits are offered – eg, fully funded study, extra leave, paid maternity leave, wellness programs
  • There are realistic career progression opportunities
  • You’ll be working closer to home

Often, when people are motivated solely by push factors, they make decisions they later regret. The grass is not always greener on the other side and many people wish they had looked at resolving issues with their former employer rather than moving onto something new.

So, think carefully about where you are heading and what you want to do. If it’s time to move on, the motivation is positive, and the opportunity is right, go for it. Good luck and have fun!

Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with people2people

Australia
   I    United Kingdom

In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.

Recent articles

By Liz Jones April 16, 2025
Over half of UK employees would consider quitting if they discovered their employer was monitoring them, according to recent research. With 85% of businesses admitting to tracking screen activity and website usage, employee trust is at risk. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones explores the impact of surveillance on workplace culture, stress, and retention. Learn how to strike the right balance between oversight and autonomy, with practical strategies to build a trust-first culture that supports both performance and wellbeing. Is your business protecting productivity—or pushing your top talent away? Read more to find out.
By Liz Jones April 15, 2025
With the new financial year underway, UK businesses are reassessing hiring strategies and tax planning to maximise savings and ensure compliance. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones speaks with Senior Consultant Maddy Laing about smarter workforce planning, contractor compliance, and aligning staffing with business goals. We also explore practical tax tips to avoid an EOFY hangover—covering recordkeeping, deductions, and super contributions. Learn how to get ahead with a proactive approach that reduces costs, avoids risk, and drives growth from day one. Are you setting your business up for a smarter, more strategic year ahead? Read more to find out.
A woman in a suit is giving a plaque to another woman
By Hannah Slee March 19, 2025
Employee recognition is no longer just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a strategic necessity. In the UK, 54% of organisations now prioritise regular appreciation, with recognised employees 8x more likely to feel a sense of belonging and 5x more likely to stay. Businesses with strong recognition cultures see 87% lower burnout rates, improving morale and retention. Simple, consistent praise—whether through team meetings, milestones, or digital platforms—can boost engagement. Are you doing enough to recognise your employees and keep them motivated? Read our latest blog to find out how to build a culture of appreciation.
A woman is sitting at a desk working on a computer.
By Hannah Slee March 17, 2025
In 2025, graphic design interviews are about more than creativity—employers want problem-solvers, strong communicators, and adaptable professionals. A standout portfolio should showcase process, not just final designs, with 4-6 high-quality projects. Candidates must be ready to explain their design decisions, handle client feedback, and demonstrate technical skills in Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, and Revit. Soft skills like communication and collaboration are just as vital as software proficiency. Want to know how to structure your portfolio and answer key interview questions to land your dream design job? Read our latest blog for expert insights and tips.
An application form with a pen on top of it
By Hannah Slee March 12, 2025
Job seekers are under increasing pressure to stand out, leading many to exaggerate their CVs. However, with AI-driven background checks, dishonesty can ruin career prospects. Instead of taking shortcuts, focus on tailoring your CV, highlighting skills, and leveraging networking to secure roles authentically. Employers value transparency, and a strategic approach to job searching will always outweigh the risks of deception. Want to know the best ways to strengthen your job application while staying honest? Read on to discover expert insights and actionable tips to help you land your next opportunity with integrity!

Latest Media Features


Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us