With recent layoffs making headlines, being unhappy at work is an extra burden. You may be pondering whether to approach your boss. The fear of being on the chopping block looms large. Is it worth the risk?
In a recent Resume Builder survey, 40% of companies said they were planning layoffs in 2024. Many of the largest tech companies like Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Tesla have announced job cuts, as have large financial firms, such as Goldman Sachs. It’s a stressful predicament.
That said, if you’re thinking of quitting, you’re in good company:
You have options. Let’s consider the pros and cons of each.
1. Keep your situation under wraps, look for a new job, and then resign. If you tend to avoid confrontation and are highly risk-averse, this is likely your inclination, although no one should take this step lightly. You will never need to have that difficult conversation. You can keep your discontentment private and resign when you’re ready because you found a “more suitable position.” You have control over your destiny. If you handle things well, you might even get a good reference.
The downside: First, you’ll ideally need to line up another job and start a job search. You’ll lose the seniority you achieved where you are. If there are any aspects of the job you like, you’ll need to forfeit those. And as with any new job, there are risks—no position is perfect.
2. Bide your time, and maybe things will get better. Sometimes, circumstances can change and surprise you. You might find that the source of your unhappiness can disappear, like a new boss or a departure from a manager or coworker. Other opportunities may arise because of business related changes, such as a new division or client to work on. If you’re underpaid, it’s possible that the company will change its compensation policies for the better.
The downside: It can be stressful to be at the mercy of your boss to help you achieve your goals or to create the environment you seek. Managers are not mind readers and hence, you may be waiting for some time. If you’re dealing with personality conflicts, things are likely to get worse before they get better unless you have established a strong, open communication line. Your work product may suffer in the meantime as you deal with the challenges.
3. Have a tough conversation with your boss to improve your circumstances. Will you always wonder what could’ve happened if you spoke up? Could you be jumping from the frying pan into the fire if this is a pattern? Speaking with your manager about job issues you’re having is never for the faint of heart, especially when layoffs and hiring freezes are happening in corporate America.
But how you package this information is everything. You don’t want to approach your boss in the heat of anger and say I’m thinking of leaving, although it can be tempting. If you use the right techniques, you could salvage and otherwise excellent job.
The downside: Depending on how you present the issues, you may now be more on the radar of your manager, who could question your loyalty. You may feel pressure to perform better now that you speak your mind. Your boss may also take it personally. Fortunately, the job market is relatively strong.
So, how do you determine which of these options makes the most sense for your situation? Some questions to consider:
If, after significant thought, you have decided to air your dissatisfaction, here are some tips to consider:
1. Get clarity on the real issues. Be sure you’ve committed to writing down the specific challenges you’re facing in advance. It’s easy to let emotions take over when you’re making such a critical decision, especially when personality conflicts exist. The best outcome will occur if you can remain factual, concise, and calm.
2. Know the result you’re seeking. Be sure you have identified your objectives beforehand. If you fall prey to using this conversation to vent or teach your boss a lesson, you may be better off leaving. But if you seek a constructive solution, then you’re giving this discussion its best prospects.
3. Listen. Remember, you’re there to gather information that will help you decide your next move. Ask questions and use emotional intelligence to get the answers you need diplomatically. The bottom line you’re trying to ascertain: Is your boss willing to take the necessary steps to bring you greater job satisfaction? On your part, can you take steps to manage up better?
If you decide to approach your boss, keep in mind that it’s helpful first to weigh the feedback you generally get and also gauge how the conversation is proceeding in real time. As with most sensitive communications, going with your gut instincts is always a wise idea. Remember, this is your career, and you have every right to weigh all your options.
Should You Tell Your Boss You're Unhappy?
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11.05.2024
With recent layoffs making headlines, being unhappy at work is an extra burden. You may be pondering whether to approach your boss. The fear of being on the chopping block looms large. Is it worth the risk?
In a recent Resume Builder survey, 40% of companies said they were planning layoffs in 2024. Many of the largest tech companies like Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Tesla have announced job cuts, as have large financial firms, such as Goldman Sachs. It’s a stressful predicament.
That said, if you’re thinking of quitting, you’re in good company:
You have options. Let’s consider the pros and cons of each.
1. Keep your situation under wraps, look for a new job, and then resign. If you tend to avoid confrontation and are highly risk-averse, this is likely your inclination, although no one should take this step lightly. You will never need to have that difficult conversation. You can keep your discontentment private and resign when you’re ready because you found a “more suitable position.” You have control over your destiny. If you handle things well, you might even get a good reference.
The downside: First, you’ll ideally need to line up another job and start a job........
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