Are You in the Wrong Job?
Many people find it hard to face up to the fact that they need a change in their career – particularly if they have spent several years in a role that has become comfortably familiar.
But if you are often unhappy, frustrated or angry at work and can think of dozens of things you’d rather be doing than sitting at the same desk day in, day out, then you owe it to yourself to reflect on what it is you do for a living.
A big change may not be necessary: you might not even have to leave your current employer. Why take radical action when, if you like your current employer you may be able to change your job role and work different hours, take on new responsibilities, or just move to a new desk.
To get an idea of how you feel about your current circumstances, there are several questions you should ask yourself.
Do I feel valued as an employee?
Employers sometimes lose sight of the fact that their members of staff need to feel valued – which can lead to people becoming de-motivated. Ask yourself if your boss appreciates your dedication and hard work.
When was the last time was you were complimented for a job well done? Are you happy to deliver only the bare minimum because all you want to do is pay your bills each month?
Are you made to feel involved in the business and being kept informed of what is going on around you?
Am I given room for development?
It is natural to want to be creative and expand your abilities and implement new ideas, and not just accumulate responsibilities and job titles.
Can you express yourself through your work, using skills that come naturally to you? Or are you endlessly tied down by red tape, forced to manage crisis after crisis?
Do I agree with my company’s values?
Do you even know what they are? And if so, are they compatible with your personal viewpoint? Being forced to compromise your principles, especially for an extended period of time, can be emotionally draining.
Do I hate my boss?
You’re not obliged to always agree with the person in charge – and you certainly aren’t expected to be their pal - but neither should you be constantly occupied with mean thoughts directed towards your boss.
Do I get on with my colleagues?
Is your working environment friendly? Are your co-workers supportive? Can you learn from them? And can you, in turn, pass on your knowledge to others?
It is inevitable that there will be friction between colleagues from time to time, but if you find yourself in almost constant conflict with one person or another, then you may be in what psychologists call an ‘emotionally toxic environment’ that could ultimately be bad for your health.
Do you find it hard to communicate with others? Are you able to share your feelings and thoughts?
Are you jealous of colleagues’ success?
Am I deliberately staying away from the office?
Do you take sick days for the slightest reason? Are you using up your holiday entitlement as fast as you accrue it? Do you arrive for work late and leave early?
If you have asked yourself all of the above questions and come to the conclusion that yes, you most definitely are in the wrong job, then it is probably time to seek alternative employment. For help with this matter, see the UK Net Guide features on writing the perfect CV, online recruitment and success at job interviews.
