This fear of the unknown is the reason many people stay at their company, even when they know they're being underpaid. It's the reason companies are so slow to

This fear of the unknown is the reason many people stay at their company, even when they know they're being underpaid. It's the reason companies are so slow to increase compensation for loyal employees. IMHO, once you're in the new role, it's not so scary. Sure it's a risk, but life is all about calculated risks. Of course you should do your homework. Talk to people from the company, check out their Glassdoor, get some references from the potential employer, etc. My experience is that you can find good jobs and be paid well. I just make my expectations about work-life balance clear in the interviews. I won't work longer than 40 hours a week. If the expectation is more, I'm not your man. My priority is my kids, not work. Sure it has lost me some potential roles, but I've also had some great roles.