After searching for a job for months and surviving on unemployment, I accepted a role at a start-up.

Anonymous

May 13,2022 at 4:33PM UTC

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After searching for a job for months and surviving on unemployment, I accepted a role at a start-up.

The pay and benefits are great, but the organization and my leadership leave much to be desired. My boss, also a woman, is new to the organization and is often unclear in her assignments and direction. Our departments work in silos and (2) leaders in my respective department left in the same month I arrived — with no announcement. Lots of scrambling and shuffling is taking place.

Since day 1, I’ve felt uneasy and it’s now month 2 and I feel it even more. I’ve tried to be helpful and learn/listen but I get the impression my boss’ favorite role is devil’s advocate.

Is it terrible to start job-searching again?

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AnonymousMay 13,2022 at 6:15PM UTC
No it is not. The startup environment is definitely not for everyone. It's chaotic and not always linear in its growth or evolution.
Startups attract a different breed and it's ok if you learn it's not for you.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistMay 13,2022 at 6:23PM UTC
Not at all. Not every opportunity turns out to be the right fit.
Look around you on this site - you are in a very full boat. This is happening to a lot of people. Just say "it's not the right fit" if asked.
AnonymousMay 13,2022 at 6:55PM UTC
I've read as many posts on dream jobs crumbling in the first 6 months as I've read they work out ok.
Take a deep breath and move to a job search strategy.
AnonymousMay 13,2022 at 10:02PM UTC
No it s not unreasonable and I would try to avoid start-ups if you are looking for long-term stability and a job with more structure. Statistically most small businesses fail within 3-5 years. I forgot want the national % is but it is extremely high. Especially more recently due to COVID. What industry are you looking to get into and how many years experience is reflected in your skillset? Does your resume highlight achievements and success stories that elevated your former employment? Ensure that it does to try to stand out against other candidates.
AnonymousMay 14,2022 at 4:46AM UTC
I hear you. They’re 7 years in and actually very successful at what they do; however, after 7 years I was kinda hoping they’d grow out of “start-up” mentality and certain cliches.
AnonymousMay 14,2022 at 11:54AM UTC
Yes, and thats the tricky part. Sometimes no matter how talented the owner/CEO and his/her team are, economics, politics, legislation, almost anything can interfere and impede. I am still feeling a certain type a way about my nearby pizza mom n pop shop closing down when they were doing phenomenal for 30yrs with no hiccups. Good luck