What To Do If You Are Not Happy at Work.

Even though the economy in the US is growing the numbers of employed people who are unhappy at work is not decreasing. The latest figures show that 75% of employees are unhappy at work (See link below). From the employer’s perspective this means fewer employees are engaged in their work and therefore they are less productive. While it would be nice if employers would immediately fix what is wrong, don’t count on it. It takes time to find a new job and for some that is daunting. In the meantime here are some ways I use in my coaching to make the job you have more interesting and exciting. My clients tell me that in the process they learn a lot about themselves.

1. What do you need to change to make you happier at work? Make a list of what you hate about your job. This is one list my client do not have trouble writing. There is a lot of energy suppressed when you are not happy at work.
2. Determine what you can change and what you cannot. Review the list you have made. Some things that you dislike can’t be changed. Remember your dislikes as you start to look for a new job but let them go for now.
3. Accept that this is not the perfect job but that you need to keep it until you find something else. You hold a lot of energy when you hate your job. If you talk about to others at work you put yourself in jeopardy of getting laid off. Most people cannot afford to quit their job so make peace with the fact that you don’t love the job but for the time being you need to keep it.
4. Make a list of the good parts of your job and focus on that. Appreciating what is good will help keep your attitude upbeat and positive. Knowing what you like in a job is also important when you look for a new job.
5. Find others outside your work place to help you. Not everyone will be supportive. In fact family members may feel threatened by the fact that you are unhappy at work. You may have a good friend who is willing to listen and help you to decide what is best for you. It is important to find someone who is non-judgmental and who has no hidden agenda for you.  A coach to do that for you.
6. Make a plan to make your current job better. In #2 you decided what could be changed. Now make a plan to change those parts of the job on that list.
7. Determine the risks in speaking up to your boss, your colleagues or clients. Are there people on your list that make you unhappy at work? Perhaps having a candid conversation with them would help. Is the risk worth it? If it is then practice what you will say with your friend or coach so that you are comfortable with giving this feedback.
8. Include in your plan a plan to change jobs and a plan to start a business. In the current economic climate it is best to have a plan A and a plan B. Plan A would be a plan for your next job and Plan B would be for a business you will start.
9. Do not lose your temper and resist the urge to tell anyone off. This is especially true when you decide to speak up to your boss, colleague or team member. Make your feedback constructive. Be sure to include what you like about them as well as what you don’t.
10. Do you have gaps in your skills? If you see some gaps in your skills set for your current job, a new job or starting a business, take a course to fill the gap.

75% of employees are unhappy at work   http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/survey-shows-most-employees-are-unhappy-at-work/

Need A Plan?

If you are not happy at work and want someone to help you make it better, I’d be glad to help you. I have many tools and techniques that will help you learn what are the most important aspects of the work you do and what you need to be “happy at work.” Call Alvah Parker at 781-598-0388 or email me at asparker@asparker.com