I Can’t Stand My Job – Now What?

Research continues to support that being unhappy at work really takes a toll on individual and family life. You may be surprised to know that research suggests that as much as 70% of the working population at unhappy at work. If you represent this statistic, you owe it to yourself, family and friends to make necessary adjustments to become happier to be around – both at work and home! Obviously staying in a work environment where you are de-motivated and disengaged is not sustainable; plus it is unhealthy for you and not fair to the organization employing you. Below are two roads of choice to consider if you unhappy at work:

1. Change attitude and Re-focus: This road is for those of you where unhappiness comes from within yourself or from factors that are common across most if not all employers. It’s important to re-examine yourself and find new meaning in or outside work. Create a life and career in which you can engage in activities you are passionate about. Most employers cannot and will not do this for you! You may be surprised that many employers would be open to discussing repurposing you in a different role within the organization. Below are a few other ideas to consider outside of work that are proven ways to revitalize your life:

 
• Consider a new hobby that allows you to do things that you enjoy, such as gardening or restoring furniture.

 
• Consider getting involved with routine humanitarian projects of faith-based missions.

 

2. Change Employers:You should consider this road if the majority of your unhappiness is coming from factors specific to the employer – a “toxic boss”, skill and/ability mismatch, or organizational instability. Regardless of the reason, make sure your next employer does not have any of these issues! Here are some things to consider in your exit strategy:

 

• Establish a profile on sites like AgCareers.com and create job alerts. Many sites like AgCareers.com also allow you to post your resume to a resume database where other employers and recruiters can find you. If you know you are going to eventually leave your current employer, why worry about them knowing you are putting yourself out there. If they ask, just say “I’m keeping my options open”. Employment websites like AgCareers.com often have free e-Newsletter subscriptions allowing you to receive weekly notices of new listings.

 
• If things are to the point you leave prior to having a new job, try and give an adequate notice and be honest why you are leaving. Searching for a new job while unemployed can be an overwhelming process. Compliment your efforts with things like attending industry tradeshows and/or seminars. These can be excellent networking opportunities.