Today was a bad day. I think I need a job change. My boss shut me down in a meeting in front of my colleagues. Then she skipped our regular one-on-one with no notice, leaving me waiting outside of her office for 15 minutes before I realized she wasn’t showing up. It was humiliating, and it’s not like it’s the first time.
That was the start of a conversation with a coaching client last night. She was distraught. Because until a few weeks ago she was very confident in her relationship with her leader. Until she challenged a decision, which she had never done before, and ever since, she feels the relationship has been on the decline. She has brought it up to her leader, who responded by telling her that she was simply, “too sensitive.” So, what should she do?
You need to calm down
Regardless of your gut instinct – and we have all been here in some context – step back for a moment. Last night my client was determined to quit. She was triggered and escalated. Never a good state to decide anything, especially not a job change. No matter your specific situation, to make a solid decision you must first cool down and get distance. Exercise, mediate, play with a pet – whatever works for you. Then, and only then, settle in and consider your situation.
Take an honest, personal inventory.
As part of your process, it is important to identify the specific reasons things not working. Without this knowledge you may get yourself in a similar situation or give up without fully exploring your options. In 2020 we all had extra pressure and worry, so before you make a job change ask yourself - does my work situation alleviate or add to my concerns? Not sure? Take a moment to complete the inventory below to help you determine if you should fight to stay or fly to greener pastures.
| GOOD | ACCEPTABLE | RED FLAG | |
| My physical health is… | |||
| My level of engagement is… | |||
| My current career path with the organization is… | |||
| My leader demonstrates appreciation and makes me feel valued. | |||
| My team demonstrates appreciation and makes me feel valued. | |||
| The goals required to “succeed” in my job are… | |||
| The way DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) issues are handled in my workplace is… | |||
| With regard to the pandemic my rating of how my workplace handled challenges is… | |||
| With regard to returning to work post-pandemic, my rating of how my workplace is handling challenges… | |||
| NOT AT ALL/NO | SOMEWHAT | SIGNIFICANTLY/YES | |
| I often feel stressed and tired. | |||
| I have contributed to the challenges I have faced in the workplace… | |||
| I feel “blocked” in my current role. | |||
| I feel like I’m making an impact. | |||
| I believe in the organization I work with. | |||
| I enjoy going to work. | |||
| I am resentful regarding work. | |||
| My skills are in high demand. | |||
| I am open to learning new skills. | |||
| I can afford a pay decrease if necessary. | |||
| I would take a lesser role if necessary. |
Reflect
Reflecting on your inventory results will bring you clarity on the most important things that need to change. Can any of the “Red Flags” change without leaving your current organization? Could a change of role alleviate the challenges while allowing you to remain with the organization?
- If the answer is YES, your next action is to investigate the possibilities.
- However, if the answer is NO, or you have checked so off many red flag areas it is unlikely you can be successful, it is time to go. If that is the case, consider what are you willing or able to change to make a transition.
Act
Regardless, whether you stay or make that job change, start by making a plan for your career. One that will help you feel fulfilled and help you reach your personal goals. Because if you don’t someone else might, or might not, so be intentional. So, use your inventory is a roadmap to what does not work, but nothing is all bad. Also think about the following:
- Are there aspects about your current job/role you like?
- What are your core values?
- What are your strengths?
- How deep are your skill gaps?
With this you have all the information you need to create a development plan and get to work on it - wherever you land. Use it as your guide to find organization’s that align to your values and your version of success!
The job market is hungry for candidates to fill the numerous job vacancies across industries. Now that the economy is reopening demand is high in many sectors. So, if your curious about the current value of your skills and experience get in touch and we can help you evaluate. Bring along your inventory and some ideas about what you need from your next employer, and yourself, to effectively navigate your career.
