When is enough really enough - Copeland Coaching

When is enough really enough Most of the job seekers I meet have something in common. Theyre unhappy at their current jobs. The complaints vary, and the level of frustration can be higher or lower, but people who are completely satisfied at work are rarely trying to leave. Common complaints of job seekers include: My boss micromanages me Im being underpaid and I got another 2% raise this year My coworker left and my boss is planning to give me their work, rather than replace them Theres no room for growth in my current position I was overlooked for another promotion I got a new boss, and the new boss doesnt buy into me My boss takes all the credit for my work My boss keeps me separated from upper management My company isnt doing well and there are talks that layoffs may happen I work in a toxic environment If youre unhappy at work, I bet you can relate to at least one of these complaints. The interesting thing is very often, at the beginning of the job search, the candidate is on the fence about what to do. Its like a bad relationship. We stay in them too long, in hopes that something will change, despite all signs to the contrary. We cross our fingers and wish that if we just say the right thing to our boss, theyd give us a raise. Or, theyd like us. Or, theyd promote us. Sadly, whether your boss isnt behind you or you are working for a toxic organization, those things rarely change. Now, Im not recommending that you hop from job to job without trying to make the most of your current situation. You should always try to work things out first if you can. But, there are limits. And, very often, we stay at our current job long after weve passed our limit. Rarely does this ever result in a positive outcome. Typically, the longer we stick around, the more demoralized we feel. The more run down we are. And, the longer we commit ourselves to a bad situation at work, the less choices we have when looking for a new opportunity. For example, if its clear the organization is doing poorly, and we stay committed anyway, we could end up without a job at all. Then, our focus becomes finding a job fast, rather than finding the right job. It can also cause us to have a negative story to tell when were job seeking. Instead of presenting a recent win at work, we may find ourselves explaining why were hoping to escape a bad situation. Even when its not our fault, this kind of story doesnt reflect well on us. The longer we stick around in a job where were being underpaid, the more our lifelong earnings will be impacted. Even just a few years of being underpaid can create a huge ripple effect later. So, what Id like to know is this: When is enough really enough? When your employer only gives you a 2% raise, and overlooks you for a promotion believe the message theyre sending. Youre not a star performer in their eyes. Or, perhaps they are not poised as an organization to do the great things you expected. Once the mold is set, its hard to undo. But, the great news is, another perfect opportunity could be just around the corner. That company could be healthier. Your   new manager may appreciate your contributions more. You will most likely make more money. Dont delay. Dont wait until you are beaten down and out of work to look for your next big job. Start now. Start while youre still in a great place, and can put your best foot forward for your future employer. I hope these tips have helped you. Visit CopelandCoaching.com to find more tips to improve your job search. If I can be of assistance to you, dont hesitate to reach out to me here. Also, be sure to subscribe to my Copeland Coaching Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher where I discuss career advice every Tuesday! If youve already heard the podcast and enjoy it, please consider leaving a review in Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. Happy hunting! Angela Copeland @CopelandCoach