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When the job you just started isnt what you expected, how long do you stay

Heny '06

Hey guys, I am mulling over beginning to look at other opportunities. I have been working at my new job for about 4months now. My previous job I was there almost 5years. My new job just isn't what I expected. Things seem to be very unorganized and no consistent flow of processes, heck they don't have an intranet. Plus I really don't do anything. I feel just sitting around and not doing anything will hurt me professionally. I like to work, I'm not the type to just come in sort of shuffle some stuff around and say hey I did enough for the day. There are a lot of people like that, that aint me.

In this extended free time, I just passed my SSCP. I'm concerned if I leave it may be a dock on me for current employers. How long would you stick around. I really like to work with people very extroverted, yet tech savvy, geek in a jocks body.

Its a nice place, a relaxed atmosphere just the work isn't there to keep my attention, plus it's a regional office so no real interaction with the home base and the engineers and the nerds who I'd like to really learn from.

I do less work and make more money. A lot of people would love that idea, but it isnt all thats cracked up to be.

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Comments

networker050184

I give it 90 days. The same employers usually give you to see if you are a good fit.

shodown

as soon as you notice its not a good fit, its time to start looking.

Hypntick

It took 2-3 days for me to realize it with a previous position, I immediately started looking, and a few weeks later I accepted a position. Put in my 2 weeks notice, and there we go. I've been asked about it, but my explanation of things not being a good fit is good enough for them.

lsud00d

Have you thought about being a vessel for change and improvement? Maybe you can be the idea man who puts things into motion. I understand office social dynamics are typically averse to change, but if you have a roadmap with positive outcomes then it can also benefit you in your career.

Deathgomper

You were at your last job for 5 years. I don't see where leaving this one in the immediate future is going to hurt you. If you had 5 jobs in the last 5 years the hiring managers may think "This guy isn't going to be worth it because he is just going to leave in a year."

Do what you feel is right for you and congrats on the SSCP.

blargoe

If it's not a good fit, your future employer will usually understand that. Be prepared to coherently vocalize why it was not a good fit (in a way that isn't tearing down your employer).

If you turn around and do the same thing again in 4 months to future employer, then it might start to look bad.

MiikeB

Though this has never happened I would leave as soon as possible. If you had left before the 2 month mark you wouldn't even need to list it on your resume. But yea, if anyone asks just say, the company overestimated their IT needs and you felt underutilized in the position. Upon your leaving offer to help them create a job description that better reflects the needs of the company so they can hire someone less skilled and save money.

You could also use your free time for professional development.

Heny '06

Thanks everyone for the feedback.