Seeking some advice from older workers who need to keep working.
I've been in my current position for three+ years as a senior career strategist coaching executives, directors, and managers from a myriad of industries across the country during their job search.
The company I work for has been in constant change and evolution since I began with them. I have never had thorough one-on-one training on what is expected of us but rather had to pick up info from once-a-week group meetings via zoom or emails.
During October I was out on vacation when new rules and checklists were created for the first few meetings with the client. I hit the ground running upon my return from working with clients and did not upload the meeting notes or forms so missed that piece.
I have a gruff supervisor who has made it clear earlier this year that he'd be happy if I was gone. He has a history of making an agenda and getting people to leave or firing them. I asked to be moved to a new supervisor, was with one of the C-Execs and then a new Manager was hired above me who I was to report to.
The net-net is I'm on a 60-day review, with the old gruff Manager. I am devastated, exhausted and allowing my self-esteem to deflate considerably.
I just want to work 20-30 hours a week to help people (get a job? with their lives?) and ideally from home. I'm also a writer and a speaker.
Can't find a job out there that I'm a good fit for and really need some guidance.
Thank you.
It's clear that you're facing a tough situation, and it's understandable that you're feeling exhausted and unsure about your next steps.
Here’s some advice that might help you navigate this challenging period:
Take a Step Back: Before making any decisions, give yourself some space to process what's happening. Reflect on your achievements and the value you've brought to your clients. This can help rebuild your self-esteem.
Explore Your Options: Since you're interested in part-time, remote work that allows you to help others, consider roles in career coaching, consulting, or even freelance writing and speaking engagements. These might align well with your skills and give you the flexibility you desire.
Network Strategically: Leverage your experience and connections. Reach out to former clients or colleagues who might know of opportunities that fit your criteria. LinkedIn could be a powerful tool for finding roles that aren't widely advertised.
Document Your Experience: Since you’re on a 60-day review, it’s important to document everything. Keep a record of your work, any feedback you receive, and your efforts to meet the expectations set by your manager. This could be crucial if you need to defend your performance later.
Consider a Career Pivot: If traditional job roles don’t seem like a good fit, explore entrepreneurial avenues like starting your own coaching business or expanding your writing and speaking engagements.
Seek Support: Whether it's a mentor, a career coach, or a therapist, having someone to talk to can provide clarity and emotional support during this time.
Prepare for the Review: Approach the 60-day review with a proactive mindset. Outline your accomplishments, acknowledge any mistakes, and present a clear plan for how you’ll address any concerns moving forward. Showing that you're committed to improvement might make a difference.
Mind Your Well-being: Prioritize self-care. Burnout can cloud your judgment, so make sure you're getting enough rest, exercise, and downtime to recharge.
I'm sorry. This sounds like a professional dichotomy in that the company is aimed toward professional development yet lacks it within its leadership.
I believe your step of requesting another manager was a good one. Is there another way to try that again? What are the shared goals of the 60-day review? Perhaps negotiating more autonomy would be helpful as you look to other external options. I know my employer has been looking to bulk up our coaching staff, and I am happy to pass along her information if you're interested. Wishing you well!
Thank you for your response, Emily. Would welcome you passing along my information to your employer and thank you. Please let me know what I can provide for further information. I'm at [email protected] if you'd like to reach out directly.