It's probable, at one time or another, that you've said to yourself, "I think it's time that I start looking for a new job." What were your reasons? Were they valid or were you simply acting out? Being able to realize that your job is not fulfilling the professional requirements you need to succeed is the first step-now you need to articulate those areas that are lacking in order to make your next move the right one.

Below, we've identified a list of common practices that hinder employee growth and job satisfaction. If you can relate with one, or a combination, of the areas below, it may be time to re-evaluate your current situation and investigate other job opportunities.

No Motivation to go to Work
We all hate those Monday mornings; however, if you've considered slashing your own tires to avoid going into work, this may be cause for concern. There are many people who are successful and well respected in their jobs, but lack the enthusiasm for the work. Don't feel like a failure, you've just chosen a job that may not be the best fit for you. Identify the aspects of the job that you enjoy and start hunting for an opportunity that allows you to focus on those skills.

Stagnant Growth Pattern
Many times during in an interview, candidates neglect to inquire about growth possibilities within the company. Once aboard, the realization hits that there is no set promotional track. This is a definite cause for concern! Get a hold of the company's organizational chart and see if there are any appropriate vertical moves available to you. If not, you could be wasting your time.

Lack of Increased Responsibility/New Challenges
Have you been digging the same ditch for over a year without a light at the end of the tunnel? If your manager hasn't given you the opportunity to take on new challenges, there are two reasonable explanations: 1) He doesn't think you can handle it, or 2) There is nothing to give you. Either way, this is not a positive situation. However, don't jump the gun. Discuss your concerns with your manager and ask about being assigned to more challenging projects. If the conversation results in the dreaded lip service, it may be time to polish up your resume.

Unsatisfied Professional Development
There is a multitude of professional development opportunities available-- from continuing education classes to one-day workshops to in-house mentoring programs. Not all companies are proactive in offering these services to employees, but should accept and foster your desire to do so. If you receive pushback from an employer for monetary reasons or timing issues, offer a compromise (i.e. one class per quarter). Still "no"? They're not motivating their employees to succeed and it's time for you to get out.

Department/Position is not Valued Company-wide
Unfortunately, this is one of those things you can't spot in an interview, although it doesn't take long to recognize once inside. The lack of respect and importance towards a department or particular position often results from it being newly formed or created. If you find yourself constantly arguing with peers or upper-management about your reasoning for being there, you probably shouldn't.

Increased Hiring from Outside the Company
All companies find benefits in hiring from outside the company to bring in a fresh perspective. However, if you see yourself, and other co-workers, being blatantly passed over for promotions by an outside hire, it's almost impossible to continue working with a positive attitude. Ask your boss to work with you in developing a goals checklist that will ensure you're next up for a promotion. If you've achieved your goals, but aren't seeing any action, it's time to start looking elsewhere.