5 Ways You Can Continue Growing in Your Company

Starting a new job can be exciting at first. But like many fairy tales, what you thought was your dream role doesn't always lead to a happy ending. Sometimes, you feel so relieved to get hired that you sign on to the job quickly. Then you realise it's not a good fit. It may give you a little opportunity for career growth or fails to match your skill set. When you see work as a dead end, it may leave you feeling stuck and unmotivated. Do you think you can still grow in this company?

Why Do People Become Unhappy With Their Jobs?

According to a CNBC article, 72% of jobseekers regret their decision after starting work. Many issues can plague the work experience that may push you to resign. Here are some of them:

1. You feel burnt out.

Many things can trigger burnout – from long hours to monotonous assignments to even non-work factors, such as personal issues. This overwhelming feeling of exhaustion can cause your work to decline, which could initiate a downward spiral. You can combat burnout by practising self-care, such as taking a break or doing something you enjoy.

2. You fail to see yourself growing in the company.

You cannot see the future. Whether you want different things for yourself or you believe you don't have a future role in the company, you feel stuck in a rut. Try to adopt a growth mindset. Career mobility may entail shifting roles, but you can grow in so many ways. Try to upskill or train. Consult with your manager about taking in other duties.

3. Your pay is too low.

A salary that worked for you when you were a fresh graduate may not work for you now that you're starting a family. Your lifestyle inflates as you get older and your salary should keep pace with that. Ask yourself if you're earning the correct salary with your experience and position in the industry.

4. The work environment is toxic.

Is your job too stressful? Are your colleagues discouraging? Is your boss overly demanding? Work, while challenging, should also be fun and motivating. After all, it's where you spend most of your adult life. Life is too short, so find yourself a company that can help you grow.

Don't Lose Hope

Believe it or not, career success does not always depend on the kind of job you have but on what you make of it. Ask yourself: are you setting realistic expectations based on your current situation? Are you putting in enough work and value to match your employers' expectations? Or are you simply looking at things through a negative lens? Even negative work experiences can lead to growth if you can take them as lessons learned.

If you find your first job boring because of the lack of opportunities, then create some for yourself. If you focus on personal growth and development, you will be much more well-equipped for opportunities that you’ll be qualified for later on in your career. Rewards are earned, and you’ll have to endure the challenges of a first job first before you see returns on your work efforts.

No matter how dreary your current work situation may be, never forget that you are always in control of your career, and with a change of perspective, you will find that there are ways to grow your career even at what seems to be a dead-end job. You can get productive about leveraging your work prospects with these five tips.

1. Take internships.

If you’re thinking of jumping ship from a dead-end job, an internship is one of the safest and most convenient ways to test the waters. With the low level of commitment, Both you and the company have the space to see whether it’s a good fit, not to mention the new career skills and business networks in store for you, plus an easier transition should you decide to work full-time at your new industry.

2. Network, network, network!

Success comes with not just what you can do but who you know. Connecting with the right people can open doors for your career and provide you with a steady supply of projects.

Try to see beyond mind-numbing work and get to know your colleagues. For one, familiarity with the company culture and what makes everyone tick is a very valuable resource for advancing yourself and making relationships smoother, so you’re more likely to get what you want from your job.

The approval of your colleagues is a top factor for getting promoted at your current company. Collaboration may lead to the recognition you would not have achieved alone, or a coworker could be a bridge to a new career opportunity. Maximise your connections because investing in people will give you massive returns in the future.

3. Find a mentor.

Mentorship opportunities are not available at every company, but that should not stop you from seeking the guidance of a veteran or more experienced colleague in your community. They offer priceless wisdom from all the time they have ahead of you. Your performance always has room for improvement no matter how accustomed to your job you think you are, and the advice of a seasoned professional may just give you the fresh perspective that you need. Not to mention that they’re an excellent choice for writing your recommendations should you choose to move jobs.

4. Ask for the things you want.

If you’re not satisfied with what you’re currently getting from your career, a feedback session or proposal may be all it takes to turn the tide. Many supervisors and managers are committed to harnessing the potential of their employees and keeping them satisfied. If you speak up and take the time to meet with your superiors, they may just hear you out, and give you the opportunities and recognition you want.

In case they don’t listen, there is personal gain in learning to be assertive and communicating your expectations and needs. If you can’t speak with a superior, ask your colleagues for suggestions and advice. These conversations may just give you the answers you’re looking for. Or, improve your outlook towards work once you realise that many of your coworkers face the same struggles as you. Together, you can work together to cope with or surpass them.

5. Upgrade yourself.

Many professionals don’t get to progress up the career ladder simply because they are not equipped with the skills, experience and training necessary for higher positions. If this is your case, then you have the power to change that. Take seminars or courses, or consider higher education. Observing others and yourself will show you a lot about your areas for improvement, and upgrading your attitude will help you become more motivated to perform at your best. It’s a win-win situation because once you upgrade yourself, your company will have gained a qualified and deserving employee to move up the ranks, or another company will find what they are looking for in you as a new hire.

Whether you’re unhappy with your first job or have been working for a couple of years and are tired of deadlines and long hours, the key takeaway is that there is always something you can do to improve your situation, know your worth, and let your company see it. If you make the conscious decision to challenge yourself and equip yourself with the crucial skills to rise above the crowded workforce, it will happen, and this is the attitude that will give you almost anything you want to achieve in life.

Even if your company still takes your value for granted, the work you have put in for your personal growth and development will open doors to better jobs in another company. Focusing on your growth rather than trying to prove yourself at a certain organisation will expand your potential, so you’ll be ready for the opportunities you want, and they may very well be a much better fit. Being proactive is the best strategy in ensuring you have several options for a fulfilling career – and that you enjoy your work life and you see challenges as the perfect resource to grow.

Check out our Career Resources page or download JobStreet’s app available on the App Store and Google Play for more job-searching leads. It also offers expert insights and advice that could help you manage your mental health and well-being in the workplace.