Try to make it work before throwing in the towel

Try to make it work before throwing in the towel
This is a column on workplace issues
The Straits Times - July 2, 2012

NANTHA asked: Under my company's two-year rotation plan, I was offered a role that was not my forte. I still gave it a shot. But now, 1 1/2 years later, I'm struggling. My choices within the firm are limited, given my lack of experience, and my aggressive job search has been in vain. Should I end my misery and quit, then look for a new job, or continue to bite the bullet till I land something?

IT WOULD be a peachy world if we could walk away every time things get really sour at the workplace, with little concern over the impact on our wallets or other consequences. But reality bites.

Do yourself a favour. Unless you are certain your opportunities in the firm are limited, push past this period of worry.

By that I mean, put in the effort to check out the options in your current workplace - even if you may be financially secure. A resume which screams 'job-hopper' won't do you any good.

There are merits to the rotation system. It is a tool that provides the opportunity for staff to broaden skills, gain knowledge and enhance professional and personal growth, says Mr Maneesh Sah, Towers Watson's Singapore and South-east Asia marketing director.

It helps firms to assess their talent and know how best to maximise their staff's divergent skills.

Remember, when a job is easy, it is rarely a challenge to personal or professional growth.

Naturally, there are tasks which you would prefer and those you may excel at. Employees should understand that the exposure is a test or chance to stand out from the rest, says Mr Josh Goh, GMP Group's assistant director of corporate services. Have you spoken to your supervisor or human resource manager?

'It's important for you to understand that it's as much the organisation's responsibility as it is the employee's to make the rotation assignment a success,' says Mr Sah.

There are other ways to help yourself - get help from a more experienced colleague, perhaps. Or divide or prioritise the work into manageable portions.

And yes of course, while you are being positive and pro-active, crank up the job hunting. What do you have to lose?

After all, you have got only six months left of the rotation, so look forward to your new posting or better still, ask for it.

Many people do not love what they do. But life is what you make of it.

If you really cannot stomach the situation and it has become stress-inducing and dreadful to work there, then leave.

'Unless the whole ordeal is affecting his mental and physical health adversely, it is not advisable that he quits without a firm job offer,' says Mr Goh.

Remember: There is no guarantee you would like your new job or the job after that. But don't let fear paralyse you from action or change.

If you cannot change your job, change your attitude. Flip that switch - focus on your strengths instead of the 'can't dos'. Ultimately, you are the best judge of your strengths.

Side note to readers: If you are on the job-hunt circuit, send your resumes to recruitment firms. I know my strengths - head hunting is not one of them. Good luck.

If you want a fresh take, write in to Senior Correspondent Anita Gabriel at anitag@sph.com.sg