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All posts I have made have been positively biased, i.e. I’ve offered advice to constructively deal with issues and challenges that one typically faces when climbing the greasy pole of an organization. I’ve had a number of conversation recently with folks who feel they are stuck in a groove and can’t get out, but not for the want of trying, but rather their boss or organization has them locked into their role. This time is no different (it’s still positive, that is) but I’m taking a harder view today (except maybe offer this article for the fainter-hearted).
If your job sucks and no matter what you do to progress you face a brick wall, get the hell out. Move on. Take another role somewhere else – the technical market is buoyant at the moment anyway. As long as you can put food on your table and a roof over your head for a week or so, then the risk is low.
I don’t advocate burning bridges, but if your boss stifles your growth then tell him/her so, and go. Be honest, say why you’re leaving, and stick by it. You should disregard any attempts by your boss to keep you in the organization – consider offers only from other departments or sections. Dissuaded by your pile of stock options? (How many people do you know have made a killing on them?) Put off by your work-buddies? (Unless you go you’ll be miserable and bored, and you’ll lose your buddies anyway). Don’t procrastinate – resign.
I’m also not advocating being obstructive once you’ve made your decision. This kind of coercion is frowned upon. Remain professional – remember you want a reference! Your reputation is a valuable asset.
Over 90% of people who leave jobs because they can’t enjoy opportunities for growth don’t regret it. In fact over 60% of these people say its the best thing they have ever done!
Check out these similar posts:
- Does Your Boss Hate You? Ask This Simple Question…
- How to Get Promoted – Fast
- I’m The Boss! The Truth Behind Positional Power
- The Two Most Powerful People in an Organization
- The Truth about being promoted beyond your competence, and other Scary Things
10 months on from this article and the IT job winds they are a-changing, as some form of recessionary slowdown is in the air.
“Practically” speaking it would currently make sense to leave only if you have a better place to go.
For most IT Techs this is probably a position with another employer – however I do understand the “get the hell out” approach. Can be liberating but scary. A financial reserve parachute is highly recommended…
@Mark – yes the economic climate has moved on! Thats for sure! But I wonder if the advice is any less relevant? If you hate your job, then most likely you will not perform well. I think this is a fact. I agree most people secure the next job before leaving as this makes financial sense, but if the current job is unbearable then I think moving on is still the best course…. scary as you say!