Career Kuel Thought Leader: Gayle Petrillo
For the past 3 months, a client of mine felt unappreciated, under-valued and believed her employer was taking advantage of her.
With that in mind, I encouraged her to update her resume, talk with her friends and business networking group members and keep her ears open. Maybe it was time to make a change.
Well, I’m excited to report that she did JUST that and landed a new position earning 50% (yes you read that correctly) more as a salaried employee with monthly commissions and bonuses to be paid upon referring valuable employees. Previously, she was hourly and was refused overtime even though she was in a marketing role, which often required her to attend evening and weekend networking functions.
“Imposters are easily spotted. That said, having imposter syndrome is something quite different.”
Imposter Syndrome:
The purpose for my sharing this is to encourage those of you who are thinking, “hey, she’s talking about me,” and might consider doing the same thing. Similarly, great jobs are available and your network knows about them. If you no longer believe in the product or service you are selling, you aren’t likely doing it well. Imposters are easily spotted. That said, having imposter syndrome is something quite different.
A career coach can help you identify your strengths, practice through role-playing, and help you build your confidence, which leads to more peer recognition and optimized potential promotions.
Moreover, if you are happy with your responsibilities, autonomy, salary and benefits, GREAT! In addition, did you know most people don’t leave a job because of any of those reasons? In other words, most employees actually move on because of their managers and how they perceive they are treated.
Secure Your Job Employment Elsewhere:
One way to test the concept of whether it’s time to secure employment elsewhere is to interview with other companies. Above all, it will help steer you in the right direction. You will quickly know whether your current employer is being fair, your salary and benefits are competitive, and if you are ready to make a change.
“The person you throw under the bus today could be driving it tomorrow.”
Therefore, remember, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. However, you won’t necessarily know if you don’t check it out. Also, please realize that many of your strengths and experiences are transferable.
And, if and when you do decide to move on, do so professionally. It’s almost never a good idea to burn a bridge. In conclusion, it’s likely the community you live and work in is relatively small and word travels fast. Kay White, author of The A to Z of Being Understood: Make your Voice Heard and Your Conversations Count, says, “The person you throw under the bus today could be driving it tomorrow.”
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About the Author:
Gayle Petrillo is President of First Impressions, Image Consulting. Gayle is an image consultant working with both businesses and individuals. Her services include: customer service training; team building skills; secret shopper services; gossip avoidance techniques; closet analysis; wardrobe transformations, personal shopping; employment coaching; and presentation skills.
