Whoops... I made a mistake

Something that is becoming more frequent is “buyer’s remorse” when it comes to taking a new position in a new company.  People in general seem to have more apathy towards their jobs now and sometimes they will leave their jobs with the firm belief that the grass must me greener someplace else.  As we often discover, this is not always the case.  Often we really want something to be better and will paint a rosier picture in our minds to believe instead of conducting due diligence.  I can tell you that the number of people that come to me within the first 6 months of taking a new position because they have made a mistake has absolutely increased over the last few years.

As a head hunter, it used to be considered a waste of time to contact a potential candidate after they had recently started in a new position with a new company.  I can safely say, that this practice is no longer a waste of time.  When calling this type of candidate, I often get the reception of, "thank you for calling me, I think I made a big mistake..."

Why is this?

1.  The job opportunity is often over sold by the company.  The scenario that was described in the interview process is not actually the reality.  Incorrect job description accountabilities, poor health of the company, the loss of a key product line or revenue steam, or the inability to implement change are all reasons that can be given as reasons for disappointment.

2.  The opportunity is not challenging.  The job might be close to home and provide a great work life balance, but the job can also be done while sleepwalking.

3.  There is no motivation to do anything differently in this new position.  Overseeing the Wal-Mart business for an array of products and then doing the same role for another product portfolio can often feel like Deja Vu despite an increase in salary.

4.  The position does not seem exhilarating or it does not scare you.  Taking chances feeds the mind and adds to one's skill set which can provide for an exciting work day.

5.  Does the new position make you feel better about yourself and what you do and the area of your business as an industry?  If not, you might just be punching a clock.

6. Does the position allow you to be surrounded by bright, captivating and motivating individuals?  The brain likes to be fed.

7. Do you get excited when talking about the position?  If you don’t, you may be wasting 50+ hours a week not living life properly.

Make sure that you don't get in such a hurry to leave some place, that you fail to do your due diligence on the next opportunity.

Farewell,

Mike