How long.....................

[happychappy]

Is a piece of string.....
OK, started a new job in a new sector in May. I have a 3 month notice clause and a fixed contract until March '16. However I am 42 only just got my degree and am aware I have to use my time wisely if I want to get on. I love my job, it just doesn't pay enough but is an amazing opportunity to gain experience I would get no where else. There is little to no opportunity to be promoted or gain pay rises so how long before I should look for another job. I would be sad to leave but know it is only ever going to be a stepping stone.

Start now, no harm in looking, useful to apply for posts that stretch and offer development. It may take a while to move jobs. I don't think many employers value long term loyalty much any more

There are some lovely jobs about which I could do standing on my head. Location of the work is the issue but that's resolvable

If it's a new sector and an "amazing opportunity to gain experience you'd get nowhere else", then I'd make the most of it. Give it at least a year.

There's no harm in keeping an eye on the market, even if only to read job specs and find out what skills are sought for the roles that you fancy. But I agree with flowery that to benefit from this experience, you need to give it a good chance... At least a year.

If you must apply for other jobs in that time, save it for something phenomenal. By this time next year, I'd be starting to look seriously.