Do You Enjoy Your Current Job? Here’s What to do If Your Answer Is NO
Feel stuck in a rut and finding it harder to wake up every morning and go to a work environment you hate? Create your own opportunities! There are still many things you can do in your current position to improve your career progression and the chances of landing a new job.
of graduates in the UK leave their first job in the first year.
took on a role they didn’t really want out of necessity
Want to leave but don’t have a new job lined up?
You are not alone. This is a common problem, especially with new workers straight from university. Many graduates take a new job they don’t really want for many reasons, either for the experience, for the money, or simply they are just unsure what career they want and are open-minded. A new job offer may come as a relief especially after many months of job searching and you would rather take it than continue the stressful hunt. However, what starts off as a light-hearted venture can quickly turn into a nightmare, especially when it becomes clear the role is no longer interesting or progressive. Another common reason is that employees may love their current job but find it hard to get along with co-workers. Toxic work environments are widespread, but if you need to pay the rent it is impossible to leave. Instead of repeatedly saying ‘I hate my job’ to everyone, take action and start your own self-development!
1. Collect Experience Points
There is no need to waste time toiling away with one current position. It is still possible to build your CV and gain experience for a new career, whilst still in your current role. It will put you in a better position when a new job posting becomes available. It can also put your mind away from the work environment you hate and make you feel like you are achieving short-term process goals.
Volunteer during the weekends if you are interested in the nonprofit sector or want something extra to hone your skills. Have a search within your current job. Many companies have a collaboration with charities and organise activities that employees can get involved in. Freelancing is also a great strategy for boosting your CV and earning some extra money. Search around for flexible remote projects for the evening or weekend. Sites like Upwork and PeoplePerHour are useful for short-term work from home opportunities. You are most likely to meet new people and make connections that could lead to new career opportunities.
2. Online Courses and Evening School
Demonstrate serious business readiness for a new position by taking training courses or attending evening school. These will fast-track your employability, advance your relevant skills and help you stand out from the crowd during your job search. There are many opportunities outside of work hours. Our Microsoft courses offer many qualifications that can be completed at home, ranging from general to specific training, such as Microsoft MCSA certification. Birkbeck University of London is entirely dedicated to evening learning and mature students, while Open University courses can all be done at home.
3. Networking Opportunities
Make the most of any alumni events organised by your university or any after work socials. They are a great way for widening your social circle from your current position and meeting new people who could lead to useful contacts. However, be careful about appearing disingenuous! Fake networkers can be spotted from a mile away. It is considered bad practice and rude if you are socialising with intent. Keep it friendly and professional. If someone is not involved with something you are interested in that doesn’t mean they are unworthy of your attention. You can also check any professional meet-ups that are happening in your city. Linkedin is the number one tool for this.
Despite having a current job and work environment you hate, there are still many ways to improve your situation without wasting any time. These steps may not lead to instant results but will begin building a foundation that will lead to a new job and a new position. They will help you feel motivated, widen your professional network, skills and open new doors.
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