Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Are You Working a Dead-End Job? Signs That You Might Be

Have you ever felt like you are working at a dead-end job?  If you think that you are, you are definitely not alone.  But don’t despair!  Even if you are currently in a dead-end job, there are things you can do to improve the situation.

One of the many signs that you may be working a dead-end job is if you find yourself in the same position, for years and years.  If you were hired with the intention of no advancement, your current position may be fine for you. However, if you have goals and have yet to see those goals accomplished, it may be a sign of a dead-end job. 

Another sign that you may be working a dead-end job is if you have been working at the same pay level, also for a number of years.  In fact, many employers automatically give their employees pay raises yearly or even quarterly.  You should never have your work go unrewarded, especially if you were employed by the same company for many years.

There is good news though, if your only issue is pay you may be able to turn your dead-end job into a great job.  You can do this by inquiring about a pay raise.  Many employers expect this, especially after an extended period of time without a raise; therefore, you may have nothing to lose by asking.

It is important to remember that you don’t have to keep on working in your dead-end job forever. There are a number of steps you can take to make a change.  One step involves speaking to your supervisor or supervisors.  This may involve asking for an increase in pay or asking for a promotion, or at the very least, requesting additional responsibilities.  Not all individuals want the responsibility of a promotion; therefore, you will want to let your supervisors know that you are interested in advancement.

Another one of the many ways that you go about getting out of your dead-end job is by creating a stir, but in a good way.  Despite your possible frustration, you may want to consider giving your job a second chance. With that second chance though, you are urged to take action.  Make sure your efforts are noted by your supervisors, volunteer for tasks with more responsibility, or cover someone else’s shift in an emergency.

Your supervisors may mistakenly believe that you are currently satisfied with your job.  You will want to show them that you want more and that you are capable of handling more.

Another option that you have when looking to rid yourself of a dead-end job, is seeking employment elsewhere.  If you have a family to support or bills that must be paid, you may only want to seek other employment as a last resort, but it is still an option that you may want to examine.

For more career ideas, sign up to listen to the FREE teleseminar (in the right column).


 

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