Leaving Your IT Job for Government Exams During a Pandemic: A Risky Decision?

In the current climate of uncertainty due to the pandemic, the decision to leave a stable IT job for the purpose of preparing for government exams is fraught with risk and can be highly detrimental to your career and financial stability. Staying in your current job and continuing your preparation simultaneously is often the wise choice, especially if you already have a job offer or substantial financial support.

Is It Wise to Leave Your Job for Government Exams?

Government jobs are highly competitive, and securing a position requires a significant investment of time and effort. Despite your best efforts, there is no guarantee of success. Furthermore, external factors such as changes in notification dates, reductions in vacancies, and frequent syllabus revisions can make the process even more difficult. In summary, it is highly risky to leave your current job for government exams, as this decision is often irreversible and can negatively impact your career and financial standing.

Consider the case of my college topper, for example. Many of my friends, myself included, chose to gain experience in the private sector after graduation, taking up offers and working while preparing for government exams in their spare time. After six years of preparation, my former classmates still had not succeeded in any of their attempts. By the end of this period, they had lost touch with the technical skills and knowledge they had acquired during their engineering studies, making it difficult to find employment in the private sector. Many of them ended up in low-paying call center jobs, feeling regret for their decision to focus solely on government exams.

Is It Stupid to Leave Your Job for Government Exams?

It is indeed a bad idea to leave your job simply for the sake of government jobs. Many of my seniors have fallen into this trap, and even those who were successful in their exams often faced severe mental and financial pressure. Some of my former classmates, despite having varying levels of success, ended up in call center jobs with significantly lower salaries, feeling deeply regretful for their decision to leave their stable IT jobs for the uncertain prospects of government exams.

During the pandemic, lockdowns and financial difficulties only further compounded the challenges they faced. They were often in a position where they had to beg for money from relatives, which added to the stress and frustration.

What Is the Best Decision?

It is crucial to consider your financial situation and the level of competition in government jobs before making such a decision. If you have a financial support system or a job offer, you can think about preparing for government exams while maintaining your current job. This way, you can ensure a steady income and minimize the risk of financial instability. However, if you do not have a solid financial foundation or strategic support, it is advisable to continue your current job and gradually prepare for the exams in your free time.

A valuable lesson learned from my seniors is the importance of having a backup plan. Many of them now wish they had chosen a more balanced approach, maintaining a steady job while preparing for government exams. This way, they would have had the financial stability and less stress compared to those who left their jobs to pursue government positions full-time.

Here are some key takeaways:

Financial Stability: Ensure you have a backup financial plan before leaving your job. Experience: Consider gaining practical experience in the private sector to enhance your skills and credentials. Honesty: Be realistic about your chances of success and the challenges you might face.

Leaving a paying job for a risky endeavor like government exams may not only delay your career progression but can also result in financial hardship and mental stress. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons and seek advice from professionals before making such a significant career decision. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but it is crucial to make an informed choice based on your current circumstances and future aspirations.