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

CareerNovember 24, 2025 11:46

Vietnamese professional holding resignation letter while reflecting on career change before Lunar New Year.
Year-End Job Switch: 12 Questions to Ask Before You Quit

This article is written in English for readers in Vietnam. Vietnamese translations are available on our website.

Thinking About Quitting Before Tết? Read This First.

As year-end bonuses approach, many professionals in Vietnam begin asking the same question — “Should I quit after Tết?”

It’s a familiar rhythm. Bonuses are paid in January, Lunar New Year arrives in February, and a wave of job resignations typically follows right after the holidays.

According to AON Southeast Asia HR Trends Report 2025, Vietnam sees a 25–30 percent increase in job movement between February and April, making it one of the busiest recruitment seasons in the region.

Before you make that move, pause for reflection. Here are 12 questions to help you decide if you’re ready for a change — or just facing year-end fatigue.

1. Have You Outgrown Your Current Role?

If your daily routine feels repetitive and learning has stalled, your growth curve may have flattened.

The Reeracoen × Rakuten Insight APAC Workforce Whitepaper 2025 found that 81 percent of Vietnamese professionals plan to pursue new certifications or digital skills by 2026 — meaning the bar for continuous learning is high.

If your current role doesn’t challenge you or expand your skillset, it may be time to explore new opportunities.

📘 Related Reading: [Top 10 Signs You’re in a Dead-End Job in Vietnam]

2. Are You Leaving Because of a Manager or the Company?

A global Gallup study found that half of all resignations are linked to poor management rather than poor company culture.

Before quitting, consider whether a lateral transfer, mentorship, or new project could solve the issue internally.

Leaving a company for the wrong reason can limit your professional network — especially in close-knit industries like manufacturing, tech, and trading.

3. Do You Understand the Real Reason You’re Unhappy?

Is it burnout, boredom, or a deeper mismatch with values?

According to PwC Southeast Asia Workforce of the Future Report 2025, employees who lack career purpose are 2.5× more likely to quit within 12 months.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I still believe in what the company stands for?

  • Am I leaving because of temporary stress or long-term stagnation?

4. Are You Financially Ready to Transition?

Tết bonuses are often the biggest payout of the year. Leaving too early could mean forfeiting one or two months of salary.

If possible, time your resignation strategically — after receiving your bonus but before the post-holiday hiring rush.

📘 Related Reading: [Year-End Bonuses & 2026 Salary Forecast in Vietnam]

5. Have You Discussed Growth Opportunities Internally?

Sometimes, the job you want already exists in your organisation.
The Vietnam HR Association 2025 Survey found that only 38 percent of companies in Vietnam actively communicate internal openings — meaning many employees quit without knowing better roles were available internally.

Before resigning, have a transparent discussion with HR or your manager about development opportunities.

6. Do You Have a Clear Career Direction?

Quitting without a plan can feel liberating but often leads to regret.
A structured career roadmap — identifying your goals, skills, and preferred industries — ensures your next move aligns with long-term growth.

📘 Related Reading: [Beyond Pay: What Vietnamese Professionals Want in 2026]

7. Are You Emotionally Burned Out?

If you’re mentally exhausted or dreading Mondays, rest may be more effective than resignation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that chronic burnout reduces cognitive performance and job satisfaction by up to 30%.

Before deciding, consider taking time off to recharge and reassess your mindset.

📘 Related Reading: [Calm Work – How to Beat Year-End Burnout]

8. How’s the Job Market for Your Role?

Vietnam’s hiring outlook for 2026 remains strong, but some sectors are slowing.

According to LinkedIn Talent Insights Vietnam 2025, high demand remains for engineers, data analysts, sales managers, and Japanese-speaking professionals (JLPT N2 or above).

If you’re in a niche skill area, you may have leverage — but for saturated roles, preparation and timing are critical.

📘 Related Reading: [Vietnam Hiring Trends 2026 – Sectors to Watch as FDI Rises]

9. Are You Leaving for a Salary Bump or a Real Career Leap?

While salary is important, short-term pay raises may not justify a disruptive change.

The AON Salary Report 2025 shows that average salary increments for job changers in Vietnam are 15–25 percent, but most plateau within 12 months without additional skill growth.

Evaluate both financial and developmental benefits before signing any offer.

10. Do You Have an Updated Résumé and LinkedIn Profile?

A polished CV and LinkedIn presence can increase your visibility by up to 80 percent among recruiters.

Highlight measurable results, certifications, and bilingual proficiency — especially if you’re targeting Japanese or regional roles.

📘 Related Reading: [10 Vietnam Résumé Tweaks Recruiters Notice in 7 Seconds] (adapt for Vietnam link)

11. Are You Leaving on Good Terms?

Professional reputation matters.

Always provide at least 30 days’ notice, hand over duties clearly, and express gratitude to your supervisors.

A graceful exit leaves the door open for future collaboration — something many successful Vietnamese professionals emphasise in Reeracoen Vietnam’s Career Transition Workshops.

📘 Related Reading: [Cracking Retention in Vietnam 2026 – Onboarding Matters]

12. Are You Ready for What Comes Next?

Resigning is not the end — it’s the beginning of your next chapter. Use the transition period to:

  • Reflect on what kind of culture suits you.

  • Research companies that align with your values.

  • Consult trusted recruiters who understand your career goals.

Your next move should not just be about leaving a job — but moving toward a better one.

🔍 FAQ: Job Switching in Vietnam

Q1. When is the best time to change jobs in Vietnam?

Post-Tết (March–April) is the peak hiring season, especially in manufacturing, IT, and finance.

Q2. What’s the average salary increase after switching jobs?

Between 15–25 percent, depending on experience and sector.

Q3. Should I tell my current employer I’m looking elsewhere?

Only after securing an offer. Maintain professionalism throughout the process.

Q4. How long should I stay before moving again?

At least 2–3 years, to demonstrate stability and progression on your résumé.

👩‍💼 For Jobseekers: [Submit Your CV — Explore new roles and confidential career consultations with Reeracoen Vietnam.]

💼 For Employers: [Book a Consultation — Learn how to retain key talent and plan for post-Tết recruitment in 2026.] 

✅ Final Author Credit

  • By Valerie Ong (Regional Marketing Manager, Reeracoen Vietnam) 

  • Published by Reeracoen Vietnam — a leading recruitment agency in APAC.

📚 References

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