what do you do when you've just left college and unhappy with your first job?

Question

I've just graduated from college last year and have been working for about six months now but I have been extremely unhappy in it since last year. I was tempted to resign in December but my mom talked me out of it. If i was financially o.k I would have been gone like yesterday. However, I'm not financially stable but I really hate this job. It depresses me I have to motivate myself to go to work and am eternally grateful for any holiday I get. I sometimes wonder If I'm being childish and should just suck it up, not everybody likes their job but they still keep it, so why shouldn't I? But the fact is I am extremely depressed and miserable here. Give me your comments.

Answer 1

I've had a similar experience.

Short answer: Start looking for another job & secure one before you resign, especially since you have bills to pay.

Long answer: If you're unhappy to wake up and go to work everyday, think about doing this for the rest of your life - do you really want to? You also have to think about the PROS and CONS of that job. Not every job is perfect - there are always ups and downs.

I'd also consider your education and experience from before - can you realistically find another job at the same pay? If you can, what are you waiting for? If you can't, I'd put in at least a year just so you have the experience to back you up.

Although, another theory is that most employers will say: If you were so supremely unhappy with where you were working, why did it take you a year to realize that and get out?

You are not being childish - this is your life. But if this has been a recurring problem with every job and you haven't stuck to your jobs for more than 6 months, maybe you need to re-evaluate your priorities.

Your mom is just trying to help you out but sometimes only you know what's good for you, and she isn't the one going to work every day, now is she? :P

Answer 2

If I were you, I would get my resume on Jobs.com, Monster.com, and Career Builders. Additionally, I would apply at the temporary agencies, and permanent employment agencies.
I would be watching my Sunday newspaper closely to see what comes up in their classifieds.

Yes, lots of people don't love their jobs--but few stay at jobs which make them totally miserable. You didn't mention whether it's the work, or the people, who are making you so unhappy??? In other words, would you do the same type of work if different bosses and co-workers were there?

Whatever, stay until you have something else (since you said you are financially unstable), but make it your second job to find another job--fast. Do give your two weeks notice when leaving--as if you don't, it can come back to haunt you in later years. Some companies tell you to go ahead and leave when you turn in your 2 weeks notice, anyway.

I would really go with the temp agencies for a while--this way you can see what you like, and what you don't in regard to the work, the companies, and in supervisors, etc.

Answer 3

I think you have to think of the consequences ot quitting. Before you quit you shoould have enough in savings to cover any bills you have if you don't get a job right away. Don't know what your job is but you should talk to someone like a supervisor about what makes you unhappy. Some companies have counseling services. You should be actively searching for another job and when an offer comes up, resign!

Answer 4

Your question said nothing about your job, it said a lot about you and your finances. You went through a complete drill to get this job, you only need to repeat the drill. Fill in a resume, forward it to potential employers, complete a job interview. THIS TIME you will need to give notice to your current employer (2 wk minimum).

You will be able to find a new job if you can clearly state why you don't like the company you are with now. Without this information, I would worry about your state of mind if you applied to me for a job. It is best to not dump on the company you are with. Make sure that the area you are working is what you are trained for, and are looking to work in.

Answer 5

AT least you are working. Let me ask you this, why are you unhappy? Does this job relate to your major? If not, I say stick with that job until you find another one. You can't quit or else you will be miserable "waiting" for something to happen. The reason why people keep the jobs they hate because they need the money to pay bills. So, find another job. You don't have to stay there.

Answer 6

Quietly search for another job you may like more. If you just got out of college, you're in that stage where you're just gaining experience so you can work up to the level you need for your 'dream job' as it were.

Just remember don't say anything pessimistic about the job you currently have, even if you feel it's the bane of your existence. It could come back to bite you in the rear later on. Also remember that professional networking can really help at this point, and build for even greater help later in your career.

Good luck!

Answer 7

Many people have to start "at the bottom" of the business totem pole. If you are truly unhappy and not just being childish, start searching for the type of job you would feel happier at. Do not give notice at your present job until you have secured a new position.
Be sure to allow two weeks notice to your present job, or it will look bad on your future resume'.

Answer 8

Maybe you should Be Your Own Boss. Check out my site at www.mishelmaree.myarbonne.com. Arbonne is a Swiss Skin Care company. You could be an Independent Consultant and depending on your motivation and drive, could climb up the chain to make great money in a short period of time. Arbonne is fantastic. I love it. Hope this helps.

Answer 9

Dont ever quit a job until you find a new one. Just keep smiling and nodding like you love it. Then go to your desk and surf monster or careerbuilder all day long. If you get fired, then you may get unemployment. lol j/k
Take a shot before you get to work... That always helps me...
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