Feeling Held Back

Question

I think I need to leave my company but I am having trouble finding another position.  I have been told that I need to work on an enterprise-wide project, but I have not been allowed or given credit for any work on such a project.  I have a master's degree and student loans.  I have been unable to get guidance or assistance on projects that I am working on, while I watch my peers being mentored without even asking.  I am feeling defeated.   I am starting to feel like as if I will need to take a serious cut in pay and start over somewhere else.  Looking for thoughts and guidance from others on this point.

Laura Scalone · Answer

I feel this in my soul... but I also ended up volunteering for the lay-off list when my company decided to restructure. I'm now unemployed, writing freelance for peanuts, and interviewing for jobs I want without thinking too hard about the pay. I know I can move up the pay scale, but I just want to find something that's going to use my skills and make me happy.

Helen Hanison · Answer

As I read I feel like I jump from directional feedback you've been given (to work on an enterprise-wide remit next) to leaving.  It likely reflects how you think and feel I realise.

But I wonder who you can ask for what you need where you are - a scope of work that points your skills at enterprise-wide experience. It might be asking that question to HR initially. Then following the trail of breadcrumbs to identify right-fit experiences / departments / vacancies to pursue internally.

Why consider that? Two reasons.  Your fastest route to progress is often where we are. An internal move allows you to demonstrate a new area of experience and/or title as you look for your next stop. And you can talk to it in upcoming interviews that way also.

And secondly, what if the direction to accrue this experience is on point and designed to help you plot a robust trajectory? Just those that you have access to aren't the owners of that opportunity for you or it's not within this team.

When we operate knowing what we want / need but don't get it, we get resentful.  I feel like that might be where you are.  So reinterpret the feedback and translate into an action you will own.  You and you alone are in charge of yourself - it's time to ask for what you need next. Openly and clearly.  You might get it!

Good luck. Warmly, Helen

Feeling Held Back

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