Should I Consider Changing Jobs?
I’ve been reading through various discussions here and it seems like now might not be the best time to look for a new job. However, my frustration with my current role is growing steadily. I’ve been with my company for 7 years and have advanced from an accountant to a department controller, which I consider a significant achievement. While I appreciate the controller title, I feel underpaid with a $130K base salary, especially given the amount of additional work I’m taking on.
When my previous boss retired, there was little succession planning, and much of the workload I currently handle was originally meant to be shared with another employee. This colleague is now in a different, more lucrative position, and it feels like others have taken advantage of my boss’s departure to offload tasks onto me. I’ve raised these concerns with my new boss, but he seems uninterested in addressing them, expecting me to manage anything that comes my way without acknowledging the extra responsibilities I’ve inherited.
Although I’m not overworked in terms of hours—my job is relatively easy—my frustration stems from the lack of clear boundaries regarding my responsibilities. When something goes wrong or tasks slip through the cracks (which happened today), it seems like I’m the one being blamed. I’m worried that a critical issue may arise and I’ll end up being the scapegoat, even though it doesn’t fall within my role. Should I explore other job opportunities?
One response
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling frustrated. You’ve put in a lot of time and effort to progress in your role, and it’s only fair to expect a clear definition of your responsibilities and proper compensation for the workload you’re handling.
Considering a job switch can be daunting, especially during uncertain times. However, your wellbeing and job satisfaction should take priority. Here are some points to consider:
Assess Your Current Situation: You mentioned that you feel underpaid and overburdened with responsibilities that aren’t yours. If you haven’t already, consider having a candid conversation with your boss about your workload and expectations. Documenting your current duties versus your initial job description might provide valuable context to support your case.
Explore Internal Opportunities: Before making a full switch, check if there are any other roles within your company that might provide a better fit. This could allow you to leverage your experience while escaping your current frustrations.
Market Research: Investigate the job market for roles similar to yours. Look into salary ranges for department controllers in your area to see if you’re being compensated fairly. This also helps you determine whether an outside move would be financially beneficial.
Network and Learn: Engage with professionals in your industry to gain insights about opportunities and company cultures that align with your values. Networking can lead to job openings that aren’t widely advertised.
Plan Your Exit Strategically: If you decide to pursue a new job, planning your transition carefully can mitigate some risks. Ensure to leave on good terms by wrapping up your responsibilities and maintaining professional relationships.
Ultimately, you deserve to work in an environment that values your contributions. If a job switch feels like the best path forward, trust your instincts and take the leap when the time feels right. Good luck!