The first “real” job is always more than just a salary; it’s experience, mistakes, initial professional triumphs, and doubts. However, let’s figure out how to tell if it’s time to move on, rather than just waiting out a difficult period.
How to know if your first job no longer makes you happy / © Associated Press
Recently, actress Emily Blunt was asked to give advice to young women who hate their jobs. Her answer was simple: quit and do what you love, even if it doesn’t bring in much money.
These words sparked lively discussions. Some supported the idea, while others pointed out that not everyone can afford to leave their job without a financial “cushion.” And they are right; the decision to quit is almost never simple.
Especially when it comes to your first “adult” job. This is where many first encounter the question of whether it’s a temporary crisis or a sign that it’s time to move on. RTÉ has explored what signals truly indicate that a time for change has arrived.
“Nudges” That Prompt Reconsideration of Your Job
These moments can be called “nudges”—events that make us pause and re-examine our relationship with our work.
The cause could be a major professional failure, an unpleasant remark from a supervisor, the dismissal of a favorite colleague, or even significant changes in personal life. Such moments are particularly common during the first year of employment when expectations do not align with reality.
However, it’s not advisable to make decisions based on emotions.
Don’t Rush to Submit Your Resignation
One bad day doesn’t mean you need to leave your job. It’s better to regularly, approximately every three to six months, honestly assess your relationship with your work. This approach helps distinguish short-term dissatisfaction from genuine problems. Ask yourself a few questions:
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Is this problem draining all your energy?
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Does this job align with your professional goals?
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Do the drawbacks outweigh all the good that this position offers you?
If the answer to at least one of these questions is “yes,” it might be time to take action.
Talk to Your Manager First
Many young professionals are hesitant to discuss difficulties. They are convinced that any criticism will tarnish their reputation.
It’s true that managers sometimes underestimate employees who only speak of problems. However, the situation changes when an individual approaches not just with a complaint but also with a realistic solution that would benefit the company. Even if the conversation doesn’t yield results, it has value. You will at least know that you’ve done everything possible before deciding to leave.
Don’t Jump into the Unknown
If the problem remains unresolved, the next step is to calmly assess your options. Searching for a new job can take weeks, months, or sometimes even years. And that’s okay.
During this period, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism. If you’ve already mentally checked out, colleagues will quickly notice. A decrease in motivation and indifference can negatively impact your reputation even before you find a new position.
How to Resign Properly
Once a new job is secured, it’s time to announce your decision. It’s best to do this in person or during a video meeting with your manager, rather than via a message or email. Explain the reason for your departure, adhere to the notice period stipulated in your contract, and focus not on criticizing the company but on the new opportunities opening up for you.
It’s equally important to diligently complete all tasks, hand over projects to colleagues, and remain engaged until your last day. Experts even advise, if possible, to give a little extra notice and thank the team for the shared experience.
Your first job is rarely your last. However, how you leave it can influence your entire future career. Don’t burn bridges, even if the decision was difficult. The professional world is much smaller than it seems, and increasingly, specialists return to their former employers in new roles, with more experience and new opportunities.
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Source: tsn.ua