Hello All, just looking for a little advice.

Anonymous

March 21,2022 at 12:10AM UTC

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Hello All, just looking for a little advice. I'm in my early 30s and have been working at the same company for 6 years now. My pay has increased quite a bit since I started, but my responsibilities have significantly increased over the years. I feel that with my heavy workload and the high expectations, I should be at a managerial level, but my title/level/position has not changed since day 1.

I recently met with boss and our department head to discuss this. They said I do excellent work, but our department just isn't structured for growth. In other words, there's no way for me to go up because we're a very lean organization and we don't have a (flexible) hierarchy in my department. was also told I couldn't be considered a manager because I don't manage people.

For the most part, I like what I do, but I'm feeling really bummed and unhappy to feel so stagnant, yet overworked. Actually, I'm quite miserable all the time and I dread Monday-Friday. It feels like I'm working so hard for nothing. What would be a logical next step? I don't want to be in the same place 6 years from now or even next year. TIA.

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Heather CutlerMarch 21,2022 at 1:07AM UTC
Sounds like your employer is being totally transparent about advancement opportunities…and there are none. Listen to what they’re saying and take them at face value. Time to start your job search.
Neecie Bee.March 21,2022 at 1:18AM UTC
Kudos to your boss for being transparent about the opportunities - or lack thereof. It's time to move on because if you do not, come year 12, you'll be in the same place and miserable.
Barb HansenMarch 21,2022 at 2:38AM UTC
I suggest that you pack up your talent suitcase and jump on the find-a-new-job train.
If you are working overtime, talk to your manager about adjusting your workload so you can work a 35 to 40 hour work week. I'm not suggesting that you tell them you're looking for another job, just talk to them about adjusting your workload.
Side note: If you have the energy, start taking some management classes (Linkedin has free ones depending on your subscription level). If you want to move into management, having some management classes under your belt will help.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistMarch 21,2022 at 3:45AM UTC
What would be a logical next step?
Find a new job.
Laura BrowneMarch 21,2022 at 4:07AM UTC
What's stopping you from looking for another job? It will either help you to find something that is more in line with what you want to do OR it will help you to realize that you really do want to stay at your company.
If you do want to stay at your company, you'll want to have some more meetings with your boss and department heads to look for some opportunities. Are there projects you can manage or other ways that you can learn & use these skills?
AnonymousMarch 21,2022 at 11:47AM UTC
Thanks for your response! I've actually taken many a management training and currently manage/lead multiple projects and initiatives for the company. I've also been looking for a new job for about a year and I've applied to over 50 and have had several interviews. Either I get rejected or receive an offer too far off from my current salary.
Glenport LifeMarch 21,2022 at 5:19PM UTC
Job hunt for someone who appreciates your loyalty, honesty etc! And a new title can be invented anytime regardless of how lean a company is to recognize quality working.
Annie LimMarch 21,2022 at 7:00PM UTC
The next step would definitely to use the experience and skills you've accumulated over the years to move to a better position elsewhere. This is the extent of growth at your current company. You've essentially outgrown it. Definitely start looking and practice negotiating for what you deserve. Best of luck!
Beatriz Albini-RuizMarch 21,2022 at 7:23PM UTC
Don't waste another year and take advantage of the upper hand job seekers have now. Find a place where you can grown and you can get what you deserve
Dorothy AduMarch 21,2022 at 10:44PM UTC
Some great suggestions made here already. Sounds like you need to be looking elsewhere that would appreciate your skills and pay you more.
Melissa Mellor, COOMarch 22,2022 at 3:40AM UTC
When I was in this phase of my life, I learned RRT and it helped to heal old dormant energy and emotions in my body that created overwhelm, frustration, exhaustion, etc. I blamed those feelings on work, but it was my own coding and belief system that snuck up on me. Once I was able to clear that, I was able to see very clearly what I desired in my career and my life.
This situation is FRUSTRATING. I have personally been here many times. They value you, but not wanting to put VALUE into you. It's incredibly uninspiring and really drains your motivation. It shows you how valuable you really are to the organization..
What I have learned is that a person can have more money, but when money isn't flowing there is a reflection that no extra money or recognition = not valued. The 'not valued' piece is actually something to heal internally.
Even though your organization is saying it can't do x,y,z - the question to you is do you need that to feel valued. If yes, there are emotions to heal.
I know that sounds odd. If I were to say that to my younger self, I would think I am off my rocker haha but believe it or not, your worth and value is derived internally. Once you have that MASTERED your feelings and decisions will become crystal clear. I have been where you are - but having done the work on myself has allowed me to become more confident, more authentic, more powerful and more valuable
Crystal HowellMarch 22,2022 at 3:46PM UTC
You said it, you don't want to be there, so find a recruiter with an upward large company that has room for advancement. Now it's out in the universe, give yourself position to move on. the Great Resignation left millions of managerial jobs. Good Luck!
Robyn McCabria KelsoMarch 24,2022 at 2:31PM UTC
Good luck in your search!