I was hired at a company 6 months ago (July 2022) for a position based on a job description they state they wrote in September 2021.

Anonymous

January 24,2023 at 1:21PM UTC

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I was hired at a company 6 months ago (July 2022) for a position based on a job description they state they wrote in September 2021. Not only was the job description extremely well written, but it laid out the tasks and expectations for my role for the first year that I would be in the position.

Fast forward to now, when I am not exactly doing what is written in the job description. So, I held a meeting with my manager and the person who originally wrote the job description and they told me that "things have evolved since it was originally written" and so they are going to rewrite it so it more accurately reflects what I'm actually doing as opposed to what it said I would be doing.

Honestly, what was written in the job description initially was far more interesting, challenging and relevant to my career path. The "new" job is not even close. What should I do?

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AnonymousJanuary 24,2023 at 1:32PM UTC
There's only one answer here and you already know it: You need to start looking for a job that is more closely aligned to your talents and interests.
The alternative is to ask them to give you responsibilities that align with the job description BUT YOU ALREADY TRIED THAT and they said no. So it's not really an alternative. Therefore, find another job.
AnonymousJanuary 24,2023 at 1:52PM UTC
Once I was hired for a job and 6 months into it, I still had no idea what my responsibilities were. The job description was worthless. I even asked why they hired me. I left 12 months later for a job that fit my skill set and in a company where the leaders knew what capabilities they needed to be successful.
AnonymousJanuary 24,2023 at 2:13PM UTC
You can do two things: stick with the job and look for opportunities for it to evolve over time into what you want, or look elsewhere. If you want to try to make it work, something that might be helpful is understanding the context of your team and mandate in the larger business (or if a big company, maybe the team or department), and keeping your eye on how you personally (not the role, necessarily) could bring more value to that larger business over time. That might help you push for your own path to change there into a role that better fits. You could work with your manager on understanding how your work fits into that whole, and possibly collaborate to chart a growth path into something that you find more compelling. But if doing that over time doesn't make sense for your career stage and current path, I'd start looking. As a hiring manager, the story 'I was hired to do X, and the company's needs changed a lot quickly and the role ended up looking more like Y, so I am looking for a better fit' is a credible one and would not raise a flag for me with a strong candidate. Hope you find a plan that works for you!
Stephanie LekowskiJanuary 24,2023 at 3:51PM UTC
Very good advice. I think too many people stay put due to fear of the unknown or having "short" tenures held against them.
Paulla Fetzek, MSEdJanuary 24,2023 at 2:19PM UTC
I'm sorry for your frustration and totally understand. My "official" job description isn't even close to the work I now do.
If you're unhappy with the path the position is on, you could look for a new job that's more aligned to your goals. Or, you can stay at your current job and see if it will evolve more into what you initially read about.
Julie EJanuary 24,2023 at 3:14PM UTC
I’m in that same situation and I’m starting to look for another job. I’m afraid if I spend too much time off my career path that this will end up being my career path and it’s not a good fit. I would start looking if I were you
Stephanie LekowskiJanuary 24,2023 at 3:47PM UTC
Get in the missing part of the job descriptions as much as possible. Ask other workers if they need help, if they hire any other workers offer to train them. If you are reprimanded or more or less told to "stay in your lane", start looking discreetly as possible for another role elsewhere.
AnonymousJanuary 24,2023 at 4:22PM UTC
Well there's nothing you can do with a job that's evolved into something other than what you want. I'm assuming you shared your career needs and disappointment? Because I don't expect they will be able to accommodate your desires since the job has evolved.
I would definitely start networking and searching while you have this position. Once you land an offer to a more aligned role give notice. Your explanation is that the job is nit what you signed up for.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2023 at 1:16PM UTC
I think you need to look for another job and get an updated job description at the same time. Why? Because they need to manage your performance based on clear metrics and it might take some time to find a new job. The role could evolve again and if you are still working there, and if the expectations change again they can also make the claim that you didn’t perform as expected - which could happen if there are personality conflicts or they are looking for reasons to deny increases or bonuses. Good luck.
Kimberly GrahamJanuary 25,2023 at 6:56PM UTC
This may provide an opportunity for you to add "you" into the job description. More often than not my actual job description has been provided as a guideline for roles I have had yet I have had the opportunity to morph roles into the needs of the team and company. It may be an amazing opportunity for you rather than to view it as a rulebook for what you can and should be involved with.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 1:12AM UTC
I am experiencing the same thing! The job I applied to and interviewed for is a bit different than what they said they were hiring me to do. They have a lot of need and I think they saw that I can flex in several directions based on my background. I don't think it's fair to what I agreed on for compensation, etc. based on what I understood the responsibilities to be. I am going to have the conversation with my boss in a couple more months after I'm a bit more firmly established in terms of my value. Mine is close, but involves a much bigger job. If yours is just way out there from what you agreed to, don't worry about a short tenure. Look while you still have a job!
Lidia AmbroszJanuary 26,2023 at 1:11PM UTC
They couldn’t hire based on the job description they had in 2022 so they lied and now that the job market is bad they are making you do the real job. Happened to me plenty times in 2022 so I quit those jobs.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 1:16PM UTC
Quit....find something else. Gone are the days of staying with a company in a role that you don't want to be doing.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 1:17PM UTC
Maybe I am just old school but I find it totally odd that no one is recommending having a conversation with management.
You took the job based on the description.
If you bought a product based on a description and didn't get as advertised you would contact the seller correct?
I think it's worth mentioning the shift and note you were looking for a job specific to what was advertised.
That way you can be clear if the position is no longer that.
If it's not, then part ways. That way everyone is clear as to why you are exiting.
Again maybe it's my old-school showing but I just feel it's the professional thing to do.
Sable MillerJanuary 26,2023 at 1:40PM UTC
It's because they stated that they had met with the management. It isn't something you can really take to your boss's boss in most orgs.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 1:43PM UTC
Sounds like the person already had that conversation.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 1:40PM UTC
I had something similar happen. The role changed between recruiting and the start date and then 2 months later it changed again. I tried bringing that up with little luck so I'm looking for something more suitable
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:05PM UTC
And when you do find something "more suitable" and they too change your job tasks to respond to the ever changing economy and markets what then, will you leave again?
How about acting like an adult and learning to adapt to changes!
Alka ChopraJanuary 26,2023 at 1:50PM UTC
You seem to be a very conscientious employee and I commend you for this. Job descriptions are written with the best intent. Sometimes there an unexpected requirement that force a change. Be open minded, agile and flexible. Change is the only constant.
However....that doesn't mean you should not progress in your career. I would suggest that you have a conversation with your manager. Talk about what you bring to the organization, your skills and how you can help them. What problem can you help resolve? I would not say that you are not doing what the description states. As that puts the other person on the defensive. Instead spin it towards the positive.
You will have a much better result, Good luck
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:14PM UTC
I love this approach. Asking what problem you can help solve puts you in a much more powerful position to be able to create a role for yourself. A good manager/organization is most interested in outcomes and people who can produce value. They'll make adjustments if you show how your interests align with the interests of the business.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:03PM UTC
The fact you think a JD is written in stone is childish thinking!
The world is rapidly changing and companies have evbery right to change the tasks of their employees, and even let them go, to respond to the ever changing economy and markets.
You are hired to do a job, not to do what is "interesting, challenging and relevant to my career path." Employers need to look out for their self-interest to keep their business afloat, they are not in the business to look after you and your career.
I suggest you do you employter a huge favor and quite so they can find someone who "get it" when it comes what it means to be an employee. (an employee is a soldier)
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:15PM UTC
What is wrong with you? That is not helpful. So based on what you’re saying if you get hired to sell cars and they change your job description to clean toilets you should suck it up buttercup? You take a job based on the job description of course you wouldn’t be happy if the company made a big change.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:19PM UTC
Not sure what century you live and work in, but your response was not only unhelpful, but perhaps could use a little editing to make it sound like it wasn't written by a frustrated insecure middle manager.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:19PM UTC
Wow!! What a rude response!! It was very attacking!! Regardless if there is any truth or not to your content!!
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:26PM UTC
It's not at all childish. There should be some semblance between the JD and what the employee is doing - tasks may change but scope of work should be somewhat in alignment. It's completely acceptable to ask for an updated JD that aligns with what the company wants from you and so that you can ensure it aligns with your career trajectory, understanding that things do change and making adjustments where and if it makes sense. This idea that employers can "bait and switch" their recent hires is ridiculous and sets a terrible precedent - thankfully sites like Glassdoor exist to hold employers accountable to such unethical practices.
To the original poster, you said you spoke to your manager but I would suggest you meet again and see if there is a way to include some of the tasks you feel are relevant to your career path and the company's objectives. If that option is not immediately available, ask about a timeline. If those tasks have become obsolete, the only option you might have is to find a position elsewhere. Best of luck!
Krystal O’ConnorJanuary 26,2023 at 2:34PM UTC
This post is uncalled for and very hostile in tone. I’m sorry you feel the need to attack someone ask for advice and validation.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:41PM UTC
This is the most boomer, "we must sacrifice all for the employer!" mentality I've heard in a while. Please don't listen to this person's response. If you were hired under false pretenses for a job that completely changed the duties (vs evolved to different tasks over time), this is not a stable place to work for. Ask to take on the duties most suited for your skill set and interests. If they stop you from that career progression, start looking for another job with the qualities you like and ask questions in the interview that can weed out if said company is overselling the position or plans to change the duties completely after hiring. You have one life to live and you don't owe any company your life as a "soldier."
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:41PM UTC
Well, those are not words from someone who understands the balance between employee satisfaction and truly supporting a business (referring to the childish thinking comment, the next sentence, the next, and the next)
As a leader that coaches leaders - if something about a job changes, I expect the leader to discuss with the employee and have that documented and signed. This way both the employee and business are protected. Plus there should be training if needed to set the employee up for success!
To the OP: Could you sit down with your manager and HR and get the expectations of the changes to the job role?
LorraineJanuary 26,2023 at 2:47PM UTC
I agree that the original post asking for advice is what we should focus on to help her make an informed decision of what to do. The commenter that was rude and condescending is EXACTLY a person or manager I would not ever take advice from. She needs to crawl back under her rock. To the original post- you definitely need to speak with your manager again and have some direct dialogue about the position you hold and what the goals are that they have for you.. see what’s in store 6 months down the road. If it’s not aligned with what you desire, then look for opportunities elsewhere. I wish you much success.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:59PM UTC
Yes, never take advice from someone who speak the truth.
Always take advice from someone who tells you what you want to hear, right?
linn hummelJanuary 26,2023 at 2:50PM UTC
I think that she understands that employment is ever-changing and evolving, what she seemed to be asking is what to do when those changes no longer align with her goals. It's not "childish" to be confused and to question the best path when the two are no longer
conducive. It is not "childish" to have a path/plan for one's life and to choose your employment based on that plan. It is that "employees are soldiers" mentality that has left many companies without qualified, dedicated, and long-term employees because when you treat employees (people) as just cogs, they in return will look at companies as just wheels. Neither of the two will benefit. Ultimately, she may need indeed to seek other employment, either in a different department or at a different company, but because it is in her best interest not because she is not a good soldier.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:59PM UTC
Her "goals" are irrelavent.
She should consider the goals of hjer employer, whom she depends on for a paycheck. Either she wants to support her employer or she does not.
RE: "It is that "employees are soldiers" mentality that has left many companies without qualified, dedicated, and long-term employees..."
Name me one company that has gone out of business because of what you claim. Employers are getting rid of their employees en mass because they see that employees are rapidly becoming a liability. Elon Muck got rid of more than 50% of Twitter employees and guess what Twitter is doing better than ever before. Mkaes you wonder what 3,750 employees actually did.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:54PM UTC
"You are hired to do a job" - it's extremely ironic you point this out, because the OP was hired to do the job functions in the original JD, so it's not at all childish or crazy to expect to continue doing those job functions.
No, JDs are not "written in stone," and yes, companies obviously evolve, and someone's job functions may change depending on the needs of the business, but the overall job responsibilities should stay the same, not "rewrite" the JD to reflect what someone is currently doing.
Imagine getting hired on as a social media manager, but getting your role rEwRItTeN to provide customer support - that doesn't quite make sense, does it? Companies will hire to fill those roles, not force their current employees to meet those needs.
Respectfully, get off your high horse.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:53PM UTC
Hey, if an employee refuses to support their employer by adapting to what their employer needs to stay competitive in the hyper-changing world we live in then the employer is much better off firing this self-centered employee.Either the employee adapts or they leave.
AnonymousJanuary 27,2023 at 7:27PM UTC
You do realize we are in 2023 now, right?
You're here anonymously taking jabs at a "self-centered employee," but you do realize that employment IS ultimately a two-way relationship? If a company is no longer serving an employee, employees have the equal right to fire their employer as well (it's called quitting, usually for better opportunities with better compensation). You consistently mention the paycheck as the only transaction between employee and employer, and while salary is a big motivator, it isn't the only one. A job is a large part of your life and most people want to feel fulfilled and for the most part, enjoy what they do.
More recently, companies are listening to their employees more, and looking to improve their retention rates whether by helping their employees grow, or adding benefits, or providing various support where their employees ask for it. This is why companies are now investing in "People," more effective DE&I, or "Development." If you're someone in the HR / Talent Acquisition space and you're unwilling to adapt, perhaps it's time you take some time to reflect, because it's only going to continue changing, and companies or teams that don't will absolutely fall behind and lose their loyal employees.
At the end of the day, it is the employee's decision whether to change or conform to what their employer is asking, but it's definitely NOT their responsibility to perform duties that do not align with what they signed up for or that they won't feel fulfilled doing.
If I had to make a judgment, you sound resentful that the current market space is allowing the workforce to speak up for themselves where you either weren't or didn't. Perhaps it's you who is self-centered, and you should consider thinking in other's shoes for once.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 3:01PM UTC
That is a BS response. You must be a manager who has done this bait and switch in the past. That is the only explanation for your sadly lacking response.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:51PM UTC
Someone speaks the truth and instead of saying "Yes! Finally someone tells it like it is." you try to creat a false narrative.
Employers don't do "bait and switch"... THE WORLD EVOLVES!!!!! You think a job that's relevant today is relevant months from now... a year from now?
Grow up and look around at all the RAPID changes happening in the world.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 3:08PM UTC
Your response is absolutely ridiculous. Employees are not soldiers and anyone who truly believes this is so out of touch with reality. There needs to be mutual respect between employer and employee. If someone's career aspirations and interests no longer line up with a job due to "things evolving", restructuring, etc., they have every right to mull over if they should stay in the role or look elsewhere. The company can do whatever it wants (as you put it, "employers need to look out for their self-interest") and so can the employee. Last I checked, days of slavery are over and Corporate America isn't the military. Happy employees prove to be better workers and their output is far above and beyond that of someone who is frustrated, unchallenged, or disgruntled. As someone who has worked in HR for over 25 years, I've seen a huge difference in employee retention, satisfaction, productivity, creativity, efficiency, etc. when employees are treated well and valued for the skill, knowledge, and abilities they bring to the table.
By the way, this platform underlines misspelled words. Maybe check what you've written before you hit post and make yourself look even more foolish.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:48PM UTC
Those employees you think are not soldiers are being let go on mass as I write this. If you think employees own their job then your are childishly naive. Now with ChatGPT you can expect more employees to be let go. AI, along with robotics, is much more efficient than any employee and far less demanding!
Melissa CorriveauJanuary 26,2023 at 3:31PM UTC
Wow, this is a chippy, unhelpful response. Please rant elsewhere.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 11:45PM UTC
I just hate it when someone speaks the truth, don't you?
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 2:56PM UTC
You may need to look for another job that's more closely aligned to your interests and skills. It's not fair for a company to present one job to hire you and then change it to something below your skill level. The only thing the rude commenter got right is that the business isn't going to look out for you and your career; you need to take control of your career path and look for (and apply to) what interests and challenges you.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 3:00PM UTC
I would have a final conversation about the expectations of your role, and be ready to discuss what responsibilities you want to keep, and maybe which ones you are not comfortable taking on. With this change in job description, I would also be prepared to negotiate a new salary too (research the current job market!). If they are willing to compromise - great, and you can choose to stay (or leave still, whichever you prefer). If they are not willing to budge - probably not the best, and I would advise you start interviewing and preparing to move somewhere where you are appreciated and where you feel you can grow.
Lpro65January 26,2023 at 3:13PM UTC
I have had this happen in the past. They know what they are doing. This is not going to get better. You have been pegged as someone who will just roll over and give in. If you try to fight it, you will be branded as a trouble maker. Try to get as close as you can to putting in a year then leave. This gives you time to research other companies and Glassdoor reviews. If you have a resume that doesn't reflect job hopping you can easily explain this position as one that changed quickly.
Jennifer TannerJanuary 26,2023 at 3:24PM UTC
First, I would ask if you like the company, culture, overall pay/benefits, coworkers, etc.? If it's a place you would hate to leave but need to do something more challenging to keep relevant in your career, then I would ask: do your current tasks give you enough time to take on additional ones, or are there process improvements that could free up some of your time? Evaluating to see if there are any internal positions where you could make a lateral move or promotion, then aiming yourself at them would give you a goal to work towards. A supportive management team should be happy to foster internal team growth that way, Additionally or instead, finding a mentor or networking with peers within your company could open opportunities for you, whether internally or with other companies.
I suggest these things to give you a goal to work towards: networking is always important, and streamlining and process improvement in your current role could give you something interesting and resume-worthy from this position while you navigate a promotion or find a job elsewhere that is more your metier.
Mary PoolJanuary 26,2023 at 3:56PM UTC
Try holding a second meeting with your manager and tell them what parts of the original job attracted you to the position and see if they are open to including them in the new description and letting you start doing them now. If they are not open to this, then, unfortunately, it is a switch position or leave the company situation. You could ask what positions are doing this work and do they have any openings.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 4:02PM UTC
Things have changed and will continue to change. I would ask to help write and steer the new job description and role itself. It may be that some of the things you can bring to the table are needed and wanted (may not even be included in the original job description and you would like). I suggest you come to the table with ideas of what you like and you think the company needs and be clear with them of what benefit it would bring the company.
AnonymousJanuary 26,2023 at 4:12PM UTC
Unfortunately, this happens all the time. I am in my third year at a company now doing a completely different job than the one that I was originally hired for. In our rapidly evolving world, re-orgs and evolving job descriptions have sadly become the norm as companies struggle to keep up. That said, it's pretty lame that the job has evolved in ways that are less interesting and relevant to your career. Even though it happens all of the time, doesn't make it right or mean that you need to put up with it. Remember -- you are not an indentured servant! It sounds like you've had this conversation with your manager and it doesn't look like things will be changing any time soon. I would actively start looking for another job. In the meantime, complaining about it to your manager isn't likely to help your situation, so I would continue to do good work, and, as others have suggested, look for ways to take on more/improve your workflow just to keep things interesting for yourself until you have a new job.
Monette AndersonJanuary 26,2023 at 7:28PM UTC
I agree with responses below- there's room to share optimistically that there were pieces you were drawn to and want to work towards incorporating those. I would also ask and gauge during this conversation what made the role change? Do you get the impression they lack trust in you or changed your role because of that, or do you think it's just business initiatives and changes? This may help you decide how to navigate this to create goals for moving into those areas you want to do by showcasing your expertise/competence and overcoming doubts they may have; or may advise whether it's best to find another position more in line with your career goals.
AnonymousJanuary 27,2023 at 12:19AM UTC
Continue to do your job well and start to look for other positions, either in or outside your company.
If you can create additional projects that benefit the company and are more to your liking, that’s to your benefit, too.
The point is: you needn’t tie yourself to a job that is not as advertised and not to your liking.
MandyJanuary 27,2023 at 4:42PM UTC
Sounds like a bait & switch to me. Start looking for a new job, because the people in the place you’re at now aren’t trustworthy. Take your time finding something great, but put your mental energy into your job hunt.
tiffany birchJanuary 27,2023 at 5:36PM UTC
Keep performing at your best while looking for other positions. This red flag is a signal for change. Much success in acquiring what you deserve.
Mishti AnuragJanuary 28,2023 at 8:25AM UTC
This is a red flag
Check out for new jobs that are more fulfilling to you
AnonymousJanuary 28,2023 at 3:58PM UTC
This happened to me, where 75% of the job description did not match my job responsibilities. For two years, I requested an updated job description and finally I was told to write one up and my manager would review it. I began applying for and interviewing for jobs (outside of my organization) and after nine months I was hired for a great position. After I resigned I asked my co-worker if he was surprised and he said “Yeah, I’m happy for you, but I think management seen you as a permanent staple.” In other words, they thought I would never move on because of my age.
Unfortunately, for you things will not change, so don’t wait because it will never happen. One person who commented, said to find projects that will create more value. I totally agree, you need to add this content to your resume to stand out and be chosen for an interview. Good Luck!
AnonymousJanuary 28,2023 at 6:53PM UTC
I was in a similar situation and knew within 3 months I needed to move around but I couldn’t transfer for another 3 months. During that time, I focused on elevating my current skills and found ways to add new skills so I was ready for a better position. I was eligible for a transfer Dec 1, 2021. I received my new offer Nov 17, 2021. I started my new job Dec 15, 2021. Be patient. Stay focused.
Liz MilneJanuary 30,2023 at 6:50PM UTC
You could try telling them?