Stuck in an Off-Role for Nearly 3 Years: Should I Stay or Seek Better Opportunities?

I am working in a manufacturing company, and it will be three years in a few months since I joined. I am currently in an off-role position under the consultancy payroll. During the interview, the hiring manager mentioned that I would be off-roll for one year and then inducted on-roll. Unfortunately, the hiring manager resigned and left for better prospects, having received a higher offer before my first year was completed. The new manager who replaced him has not considered me for an on-roll position or a salary hike. Despite my good work performance, responsibility, and proactive attitude, there has been no progress.

It has now been 2.8 years, and I am still receiving the same salary I was initially hired for. When I communicated with the manager, he advised me to wait for six months and then another six months. Finally, after completing my second year, there has still been no positive outcome. Is it advisable to continue in an off-role without a salary hike, or should I quit the job and look for better prospects?

Look out for another job, w/o quitting. Take into account the notice period and any formalities of your present company for the exit while negotiating with other companies. I am not aware of your qualifications, skills, etc., but seeing the job market where PhDs are applying for peon jobs, I would advise holding on to the job and continuing to earn while being active to get better opportunities. Probably in the meantime, do some skill development courses.

Hello. Thank you for the reply.

I have an MBA in HR. Currently, I am in the notice period of one month. I have been exploring new opportunities in other companies, but I have faced challenges due to the requirement of hiring people through references. Additionally, I have received a few job offers, but they were for off-role positions that do not interest me.

It is becoming challenging to continue working at my current company as I am finding it difficult to cover my monthly travel expenses.

I would appreciate any advice or assistance you can provide.

Thank you.

It's better that you go for any job in a company that is better than the past, either Off-Roll or On-Roll. Later, you can find a position that you have aimed for. Being unemployed doesn't give you a job. There are many who face challenges for a few months with no job. It's better to take what you can get, even if it offers a higher salary package than your previous job.