A reader asked Work Friend: "I was laid off toward the beginning of the pandemic. Shortly afterward, an old boss offered me a position I had held the year prior. The salary was $13,000 less than I had been making, but I was told we could re-evaluate in six to 12 months as they couldn’t offer more based on the uncertainty at the time. I have now been back at the job for nearly a year and am miserable. There’s little room for growth, and I’m being tasked with responsibilities I both dislike and am not good at. In a recent meeting, I told my boss that I would like to start the conversation about upping my salary, and was told that would not be possible to discuss until fall as budgets were already finalized and approved — and that I would have to work on justifications for a raise in 2022. I want out of this job, but I agreed to stay for a while when I accepted it. At that time, nobody was hiring and I felt lucky, but now I feel depressed and anxious. I feel financially undervalued and like I could be miserable somewhere else making a lot more money. Am I a jerk for looking for a new job so soon?"
It's understandable to feel conflicted in this situation. He might consider having an open and honest conversation with his boss about his feelings and concerns. Express his appreciation for the opportunity during a tough time, but also share that the role has evolved into something that's not aligned with his skills and interests. Discuss the initial agreement about re-evaluating m salary and growth opportunities. This conversation could lead to a clearer path forward, whether it’s changes in the current role or setting a realistic timeline for finding a new position. Open communication can sometimes lead to unexpected solutions.
Sarah Loud
2w
A jerk? Run, don't walk. And hold your head high while doing either.
Marc Solomon
1w
You are not a jerk, perhaps that is a word for your boss
They promised and you promised. Because they didn't keep their promise, you are not obligated to keep yours.. Contracts consist of: offer, acceptance, and consideration. The "consideration" is absent, which means you don't have a contract. Get a new job and be happy & free!
It is much better than to go on depression, sometimes it is happening just to open up your to understand the meaning of life. Do not give up your pen 🖋 and think deeply about your life! COURAGE. EMMANUEL LATOUCHE
I’ve had many careers because I only get one of me.
Tammy Warner
1w
Get out. You owe your employers nothing. They're just exploiting you.
Martina M
1w
Each day you remain in that role is one day less towards fulfilling the purpose were created for and living the life you envision. It also affects your health which in turn will dictate the quality of life you will have in the future.
Linda Zarei
1w
They broke a promise to you to increase your salary. You owe them nothing. They have no intention of giving you a raise. The only way to get paid according to the current market is to hop to another employer who values you and your contribution.
Personal and Career Coaching - supporting you in beautifying your inner landscape through healing of trauma and knocking down old paradigms of self-perception. What life do you really want to live?
2wThis seems like an older post from the date, but is still valid. Have they upheld their end of the agreement about re-evaluating for a wage increase? Doesn’t sound like it. The important thing is, unless you are under contract there is absolutely no reason to NOT find a job that brings you fulfillment, livable wage and minimal stress. There is no reason to settle. Make more money in a job you LIKE.