In a free market, the price of most commodities for sale are subject to the law of supply and demand. The demand for the skills, qualities and connections of individuals in the mortgage world are also related to this economic theory, and therefore, for most industry professionals, there are definable opportunities to maximise the value of their personal career stock.

This may therefore be the time to proactively manage career prospects, and in working with a niche market headhunter, professionals are able to obtain consultative advice that can enable them to maximise their marketability. With the right advice, they can be shown where external offers can be in advance of those currently available.

Today, competition within the mortgage industry is fiercer than ever. In the words of Steve Finkel, a career development guru: “The most successful people in life are not necessarily the smartest or the hardest working, though that never hurts. They are the ones who are the most adept at leveraging their career, recognising an opportunity when it presents itself and making a timely career move.”

The glass ceiling within an organ­isation is another major factor in considering a career move. Competition within the industry has driven up salaries and remuneration packages. Investigating the market rate for a skill set can certainly prove invaluable experience when making decisions about a future career. At the very least, market evidence of how an existing salary compares to a similar role elsewhere, provides a strong negotiating position with a boss.

Recent surveys have found over one third of employees said personal development and ongoing training was the primary component in their work role. Just under one third said their work-life balance was top of their list, and one quarter said salary was most important.

However, remember that if a professional moves employers too many times, their CV will not look attractive.