Year-End Job Switch: 12 Questions to Ask Before You Resign

This article is written in English for readers in Singapore. Chinese and Japanese translations are available on our website. 

Thinking of Leaving After Bonus Season? Read This First.

As the year winds down, many professionals in Singapore begin weighing their options.
According to the Ministry of Manpower’s Labour Market Report Q3 2025, resignation rates typically spike 6 to 8 weeks before Lunar New Year, often just after annual bonuses are credited.

A recent JobStreet survey (2025) also found that 42% of Singapore workers are open to switching jobs by Q1 2026 — citing career stagnation, mental fatigue, or a desire for hybrid flexibility as top reasons.

But before you hand in that notice, take a pause. Here are 12 key questions to help you decide whether a year-end move will advance your career — or simply reset it.

1. Why Do I Really Want to Leave?

Is it burnout, management issues, or lack of growth?
Clarify whether your frustration is situational (e.g. workload, timing) or structural (e.g. culture fit, stagnant leadership).

A clear motive ensures your next role fixes the root cause, not just the symptoms.

2. Have I Maxed Out My Current Role?

Before resigning, assess whether you’ve fully explored internal transfers, training, or stretch projects.

Reeracoen’s APAC Workforce Whitepaper 2025 shows that 62% of Singapore employers prefer to promote from within before rehiring.

If your company offers an internal mobility programme, it may be worth a final conversation.

3. What Am I Walking Away From Financially?

Check:

• Bonus payment dates (some are credited in February 2026).
• Unused leave encashment and CPF contributions.
• Any bond or training clawbacks tied to your role.

Leaving too soon could mean losing months of earnings or benefits.

4. Is the Market in My Favour?

While hiring remains strong in tech, manufacturing, and green energy, MOM’s data shows competition tightening for mid-management roles.

Search current demand on [Reeracoen Singapore’s Job Portal] to gauge your market value before resigning.

5. Have I Updated My Résumé and LinkedIn?

Your first impression matters.

Ensure your résumé reflects measurable results and your LinkedIn headline matches your current aspirations.

Read also: [10 Singapore Résumé Tweaks Recruiters Notice in 7 Seconds]

6. How Long Can I Sustain Myself Financially?

Plan for a 3–6-month buffer for job hunting, especially during year-end holidays when hiring slows.

Review savings, insurance, and family commitments before making your move.

7. Am I Leaving on Good Terms?

Reputation travels faster than résumés.

Provide proper notice, complete handovers, and thank your manager and colleagues.
Future employers may call for references — professionalism now can open doors later.

8. Have I Outgrown the Company or the Role?

Sometimes, the company still fits but the role no longer challenges you.
If your goals have evolved, ask whether there’s room for advancement.

If not, it may be time for a strategic transition — not an emotional exit.

9. Is My Next Role Truly Better or Just Different?

Compare scope, stability, culture, and commute — not just salary.

The Reeracoen × Rakuten Insight study found that 58% of job switchers in Singapore regretted moving for higher pay alone within six months.

Look for long-term alignment with your values and lifestyle.

10. Am I Prepared for AI and Skill Disruption?

Roles are evolving fast.

Before switching, review your future-proof skills — digital literacy, data use, communication, and adaptability.

Explore next: [Upskilling in the Age of AI & Green Jobs]

11. Will My Exit Affect My Team or Projects?

Ethical timing matters.

If you’re leading major Q1 projects, coordinate your notice period to minimise disruption.
Strong exits often leave lasting professional goodwill.

12. What Does My Gut Say?

Data guides decisions — but intuition protects your well-being.

If you’ve analysed every angle yet still feel uneasy staying, trust that instinct.
Sometimes, moving on is the most authentic form of growth.

Key Takeaway

The year-end period can bring reflection — but also rash decisions.

Ask yourself these 12 questions before resigning, and make your next move strategic, not seasonal.

Your best career change isn’t just about timing — it’s about clarity, confidence, and purpose.

 

🔍 FAQ: Year-End Job Moves in Singapore

Q1. When is the best time to resign?

Ideally after bonus payout (Jan–Feb 2026) if your notice period still aligns with your next employer’s start date.

Q2. Should I accept a counter-offer?

Only if it resolves your original concerns; most employees who accept counter-offers leave again within 12 months.

Q3. How can I plan a smooth transition?

Inform your supervisor early, document handovers, and offer to train replacements where possible.

 

👩‍💼 For Jobseekers: [Submit Your CV — Plan your next career move with Reeracoen’s consultants.]

💼 For Employers: [Book a Consultation — Learn how to retain top talent before year-end attrition.]

 

✅ Final Author Credit
By Valerie Ong (Regional Marketing Manager, Reeracoen Singapore)
Published by Reeracoen Singapore — a leading recruitment agency in APAC.

 

Related Articles:

• [Upskilling in the Age of AI & Green Jobs]
• [10 Singapore Résumé Tweaks Recruiters Notice in 7 Seconds]
• [Top 10 Hiring Trends to Watch in 2026 (Singapore)]
• [Cracking Retention in 2026 — Why Onboarding Makes or Breaks Engagement]

📚 References 

• Ministry of Manpower – Labour Market Report Q3 2025
• JobStreet Hiring Report 2025 – Singapore Resignation Insights
• SkillsFuture Singapore – Career Development Resources
• Reeracoen × Rakuten Insight APAC Workforce Whitepaper 2025
• Workforce Singapore (WSG) – Career Advisory and Support

 

 

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