How soon should I consider looking for a new job?

Anonymous

February 11,2022 at 11:21PM UTC

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How soon should I consider looking for a new job? I just started at a large firm and gradually I have been noticing issues in management, workload, and boundaries. Initially it took a long time to hear back with an offer, and the job title I currently have is a lower position than the one I had applied for - my manager’s reply was that I was “right on that border” of being at senior level. Currently I am the only one in my area of expertise, their previous team recently left for other jobs. In the last 6 weeks I have been placed on 6 projects, with various size tasks being handed to me but no clear direction, project background information, or available support sources. Today I spoke with a coworker who started at the same time as me and noticed the same things- she is on 2 projects and our same PM informed her she can comp her time if she works over but I was never informed of this. During my start day my direct manager also stated he would be my advocate and make sure I got the support I needed because I am their “senior” designer. Last week I learned from him that I am to look for an advocate and he’s just my manager. Last week I was also instructed to interview someone because the office needs to hire another person in my team. Today he tells another manager that I didn’t interview the person, it was just a conversation. A little background about me - I was unemployed for 2 years once the pandemic shut downs happened. This is my first paying role in a long time. I also am someone who has trauma from a former toxic company through overwork, harassment, mobbing, humiliation, and termination. I obviously need a job but this week I worked until 3am for 2 days straight and today I learn I have a new project.

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lakshmi srinivasanFebruary 12,2022 at 12:46AM UTC
It sounds like there is lack of clarity in your job responsibilities and expectations. If the team is working on bare minimum resources - then it may be worthwhile for you to have conversations to figure out how you will get compensated for the extra hours. However if you feel like you need to put in the extra hours to please/impress your manager - I would strongly advise you to instead define projects/scope of work and clear outcome expectations. Don’t overwork your self to a point of exhaustion. Believe in your self, your skills and have the right confidence to approach this topic with your manager
AnonymousFebruary 12,2022 at 1:26AM UTC
FIRE UP THAT RESUME!
You're still in the honeymoon phase, it's only going to get worse. Your interviewing skills should still be sharp.
I know it sucks to restart your job search but not as much as it sucks to be miserable every day. Invest your time in a company where it will pay off for you in the long run.
I too was out of work for a long time, just started a new contract position and on day one, I knew this was not the place for me. That's only been reinforced over the last 5 weeks. I never stopped my job search.
I deserve to be happy and fulfilled in my job and I'm going to keep looking til I am. I don't care how long it takes.
Katie KristlFebruary 12,2022 at 1:48AM UTC
Yikes! I think you have your answer. It wouldn't hurt to start looking for something else.
I understand you're a little gun-shy from being unemployed for a while, but right now it's a candidates' market - take advantage of that and find something that is a better fit!
AnonymousFebruary 12,2022 at 2:10AM UTC
It appears that this job triggers your old trauma and behaviors. You are establishing healthy boundaries and taking care of yourself. Soon you will find yourself back in that dark place.
If you don't have a therapist I suggest you find one for support and direction before you incur more damage.
AnonymousFebruary 12,2022 at 2:10AM UTC
Selfcare is the most important thing you can do. Boundaries are selfcare.
Debra SesholtzFebruary 12,2022 at 2:02PM UTC
The best time to explore new opportunities is while employed. If you don’t think this situation will improve, there is no harm in looking for a new opportunity that better suits you and your needs.
Julie Chatman, MBA, CISMFebruary 12,2022 at 8:49PM UTC
Well said!