Do you complain endlessly about your job? You know what I mean.
“My clueless manager micro-manages.”
“My coworkers could be pictured on Wikipedia under ‘stupidity’.”
“I could work 24/7 for an entire year and still not be caught up with my workload.”
“My pay needs more zeroes at the end.”
If these are your complaints, then what are you doing about it?
Here are 6 reasons people stay in a job they hate instead of looking for a new one. Are any of these reasons keeping YOU in a job you hate?
1-Fear of Change
It’s overwhelming to think about all the changes a new job could bring – new commute, new manager, new corporate culture, new coworkers … If this reason is keeping you in a job you hate, then stop wasting energy on the fear of change. Realize that initiating a job search will either find a better opportunity OR validate your current employment is not so bad. If we always know what’s ahead, wouldn’t our journey be boring? Challenge your fear and embrace that change.
2- Fear of Rejection
A company will either hire you or not – there are no shades of gray. Re-frame your thinking. Instead of seeing it as rejection, look at it as closure. At least you know where you stand with that company and can move on to the next opportunities. The best way to deal with rejection is to have multiple opportunities at one time. Many people stop or slow down their job search when they have one interview scheduled. Don’t make that mistake. Sustain your momentum until you accept an offer.
3- Lack of Time
Looking for a new job is a full-time job – which is challenging if you are currently employed with a demanding job. Use technology to make your job search easier. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and set-up automatic job searches. Read Job Search + LinkedIn = Success for more ideas.
The less time you dedicate to searching for a new job, the longer it will take to find one. If you’re like most people, you’ll become frustrated with a long time frame. When you are truly ready to look for a new job, commit 4 weeks to your job search. If you are currently unemployed, dedicate 8 hours per day. If you are employed, then dedicate at least 8 hours per week (but realize it’ll take you longer to find a new job). Change other commitments to find time for your job search. If finding a new job is really important to you, you’ll find a way. Set goals with defined timelines, giving yourself a break every 4 weeks, especially if you are employed.
4- Unfamiliar With Job Search Process
While technology has changed the job search process, it’s still about your connections. Keep the technology part simple and begin with LinkedIn. But more importantly, start reaching out to your connections. Make sure you can clearly articulate what you are looking for – avoid telling people you’ll take anything.
5- Unsure of What To Do
Looking for a job can be a daunting experience, especially when you don’t know what you want to do. Start by listing how you want your new job to be different from your current employment. Next, read job postings and business journals to figure out what jobs resonate with you. You may not know EXACTLY what you are looking for but you can develop a strong sense of the industry, responsibilities and benefits you want. Read 5 Steps to Figure Out What To Do For a Living for more ideas.
6- Enjoy Drama
You may be staying in a job you hate because you just enjoy drama. While it may be tolerable for you, take a look at how it’s impacting your personal relationships and your health. Are friends and family avoiding you because you complain non-stop? Has your weight significantly changed since you started working at your current employer? If you answered “yes”, then it may be time to shift drama out of your life. Watch drama on TV and start looking for a new job.
If your job really frustrates you, stop complaining and take control. Don’t let any of the above reasons become an obstacle. Keep moving forward. And remember, stay PEF (positive, enthused, focused)!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Her firm bridges the gap between financial planning and coaching. As a Transition Consultant, she offers sage advice in all aspects of life – financial, personal and professional. Her services include spending plan, financial plan, divorce financial review, life strategy and professional progression. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant and as a financial advisor. Her experience includes hiring and managing employees. Additionally, she worked for an executive search firm recruiting C-level executives. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me’.”