The reality is that you can never be completely sure when the right time to take the next step in your career will be. In some cases, you may actually be in a better position if you move roles during this period rather than waiting.
Of course, you may miss out on a bonus in the short term. However, it’s important to consider the potential upside of a new opportunity. This could include a higher base salary, stronger career prospects, and possibly even securing a pro rata bonus in your new role. When you take these factors into account, are you really losing out?
Balancing Financial Security with Career Opportunity
It is, of course, easier said than done. If the expected bonus is significant, it can feel difficult to walk away from it. Financial security matters, and many people make decisions based on income they expect to receive in the near future.
However, there is a strong argument that bonuses and career opportunities should be considered separately wherever possible.
Any new role is likely to come with:
An increase in base salary
A stronger overall benefits package
Better long-term career prospects
Combined with increased motivation and job satisfaction, this can lead to improved performance and potentially larger bonuses in the future.
In many cases, the financial benefits of a new role can quickly outweigh the short-term loss of a bonus.
Considering the Timeline
It’s also important to think about timing.
For example, if you begin considering a move in November and your bonus is paid in March, you may be tempted to wait. However, with a typical three-month notice period, you may not realistically start a new role for eight months or more.
That is a long time to remain in a position if you are already considering a change.
In some cases, employers may offer pro rata bonus schemes, meaning you could still receive a portion of your bonus in a new role. If your new employer offers this type of structure, the financial difference between staying and leaving may be smaller than expected.
And of course, there is no guarantee that the right opportunity will still be available months later.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
Ultimately, the decision to move roles before receiving a bonus is a personal one. Some professionals will prefer to wait for the certainty of the payment, while others may prioritise the long-term benefits of a new opportunity.
From our experience, particularly around bonus season, it is worth considering the bigger picture. Waiting for a bonus before even updating your CV or exploring the market is not always the best approach.
Sometimes the right career opportunity is worth pursuing sooner rather than later.
