You can’t say when it began exactly. You were happy in your role, and the culture of your organisation felt a perfect fit. But somewhere along the way a nagging sense of discontent has crept into your daily experience at work. Sunday nights feel depressing, and you might be feeling bored – or worse – angry.
If this sounds familiar, it’s likely you’ve reached a stalemate in your professional growth. To avoid sinking further into frustration – which can lead to belligerence and diminished performance – don’t ignore the niggling signs of discontent. Identifying that you are no longer happy in your workday is critical to taking positive action – whether that means changing up your role or seeking a new challenge elsewhere.
Plan to make 2019 your best year yet by positioning yourself in the right role and asking yourself the critical questions: is it you, or the agency you work for? Should you stay or should you go?
Identifying that you are no longer happy in your workday is critical to taking positive action.
Consider staying if …
- You love the agency you work with. The positive business culture that has made your career pleasurable and fulfilling until now deserves further commitment! Don’t assume that your principal or department head is a mind-reader; sit down with them and explain the kind of role you’d like to pursue. Clearly define the ways you will add value to your business in this position.
- You feel there’s more to learn in your role. Whilst it is true that we can always learn more in any role, you may feel stymied in your current role because you are not receiving the training and support required to really thrive. Speak with your manager to identify whether additional training and professional support can be made available to you.
- You need a holiday! As we approach the close of the year and busiest leasing period, overwhelm and overwork can cloud our vision. Learn to rest, not to quit. If you’re still feeling discontented after you’ve had time to recuperate, it is time to meet with your manager and have a more in-depth conversation.
- You’ve had your concerns heard by your employer, and they’ve presented you with a clear roadmap to career progression. Your ideal role may not be immediately available in your organisation, but you know that within a given timeframe you will adopt a new role (and pay grade).
Consider leaving if …
- You are experiencing discrimination or bullying in your workplace. If you’ve addressed your concerns with your superiors and no action has been taken to address the matter raised, move on – the cost of continuing to expose yourself to disrespect is not worth the financial reward.
- The culture in your agency is antithetical to your own. If you feel as though the practices in your agency do not serve your clients ethically, move on to greener pastures.
- You’ve expressed your desire to change or vary your role for some time, and you remain without a roadmap to career progression. If you are genuinely unhappy in your role, have expressed your misgivings and do not feel you are being heard, it may be time to continue your career elsewhere.
When considering the next step in your career, be careful not to ‘throw the baby out with the bathwater’. Before making a grand exit in frustration, take time to speak frankly with your employer: your next great professional adventure could be closer to home than you think.
