Where’s All that “Greener Grass?” What to Do When Your Food & Beverage Job Isn’t What You Expected

November 11, 2013 in Career and Job Search Tips

 

 

It’s your worst nightmare – and it’s come true.

You’ve recently accepted (what seemed to be) an amazing position. But after several weeks on the job, you start noticing problems. Big problems:

  • You were told that the position would be challenging, but you don’t have the responsibilities you expected.
  • Your boss promised lots of one-on-one time to train you, set measurable objectives and define your career progression. Honestly, however, none of that has happened.
  • Everyone seemed friendly when you interviewed. Now that you’re working there, though, you’re finding that the office culture is toxic – full of cliques and back-stabbers.

True, this scenario is a bit extreme. Just one of these problems could be enough to cause you to question the long-term viability of your new food & beverage job. But regardless of the reason, if you find that the grass really isn’t greener – that the job you recently accepted is not what it seemed to be during the recruiting process – what should you do?

First of all, take a deep breath. Realize that, while your circumstances may be far from ideal, you do have options. Here are a few tips from Kinsa to take control of the situation:

Take stock of the positives and negatives. In every career, you have to take the good with the bad. Make a list of what you like about the opportunity and what you simply can’t tolerate – and see which list is longer. If your dissatisfaction stems from just a few issues, you may be able to turn things around; but if the bad far outweighs the good, realize that you may need to take some immediate action. Possible options are outlined below, so keep reading.

Determine what needs to change in order for you to stay. Because you’ve already thoughtfully made the decision to join this company, create a list of specific requests. Do you need clearer objectives, so you know how your performance will be evaluated? Is there a troublesome work dynamic you need to improve in order to be happy? Do you simply need more challenging work? Once you define what you need, constructively frame your talking points to make sure that your requests contain positive solutions – and not merely complaints.

Talk to your recruiter. If you were placed by a recruiter (especially if Kinsa placed you), schedule a time to explain your situation. Lay out the positives and negatives of your new position, as well as misconceptions you may have had. Remember, a recruiter is as committed to your success as you are. As such, he can help you examine your circumstances, offer advice, act as a potential mediator and work through this difficult situation.

Talk with your boss. He may be completely unaware that you’re dissatisfied. If the job really isn’t what you expected, have a meeting to:

  • outline your current situation, including what is going well and what isn’t;
  • review why you’re dissatisfied, explaining the specific areas you’d like to see changed;
  • propose resolutions, focusing on concrete ways to make you more successful in and satisfied with your new role.

Calmly and clearly present your case, and then ask your boss for help. Give him an opportunity to work with you in making the position live up to your expectations.

Make your plan. If, things don’t improve and you’re certain that the job isn’t for you, don’t jump ship immediately. It’s easiest to find a job while you have a job, so create a plan to identify new opportunities and confidentially begin your job search. While you’re still on the job, continue to perform to the best of your ability, so you can ensure a good employment reference.

Augment your job search by registering with Kinsa Group. With more than 25 years building successful careers for food & beverage executives, Kinsa can present you with opportunities that provide the challenge, compensation and culture you desire. Best of all, we will confidentially search for positions on your behalf while you continue working. If you’re ready to make a career move, search executive and professional food & beverage jobs here or contact Kinsa today.