All People in All Surveys (United States)

Just work hard and learn the business inside and out.

Seven years ago, I got a dream job in my dream field. I loved my job and the people and environment I worked in. Recognized for my single handedly creating procedures and solutions, for my job title, which had none in place when I started, I asked for, and received higher compensation for the great job I was doing. But five years ago, small indicators appeared that I ignored. There was a ceiling for being promoted, or more opportunity for career growth and pay in my company. Also, just as my workload became onerous, it became a battle to get support from the clerical staff because my boss was ineffective at managing work relationships and responsibility between the clerical staff and management. Eventually, the office deteriorated after a few years into politics instead of performance. When the overall job market plunged around the country and my city, we had some layoffs, so I was given even more work, but no additional pay. As the main breadwinner, I was afraid to 'rock-the-boat, grateful I had a steady paycheck and job security. Since I loved the work that I did, I didn't look for other opportunities, as if my job would go on forever. Unfortunately it has. The project finished, there were new ones, and I continued in the same position and was stalled to move forward. I got into a rut. Outsiders were hired for new jobs in our company, instead of promotions from within. So now I am bored, and considering leaving. After researching it, I realize I am being compensated above the average for my work in this industry, but that there isn't much more room to move up salary wise. The time and cost of more education, and the long hours I would have to put in, for more challenging positions, would not be recouped financially in this field. So I am researching other fields, that do not take a lot of training, education, money or time to switch into. I am now looking for a career that would allow me to START at a higher salary, challenge me to learn new things, utilize my strengths, and allow me more flexibility in time and increased income. Don't ignore the telltale warning signs of obstacles to advancement. Don't be intimidated by the job market or fear of rocking your 'security' boat. Had I not ignored the obvious around me, I could have researched and chosen a field to move into 3 years ago, and gotten the training or education to make my move by now. It took me 2 years to realize I am no longer growing and my performance is lagging, not because I reached my limit, but because the job and career is too limiting for me. I don’t regret my job and career, but its time for a change. No matter when you realize you are in a rut, or headed toward one, stop, weigh your options to continue as is, versus what could be and what it takes to make that change. Set goals, take that 1st step, and achieve what will make you happy.

When I was starting out in the real world of employment, my first priority was to find a good paying job. Like many young adults today all I was really thinking of is what kind of career can I get into where I can make lot's of money. Well here is your wake-up call. For 15 years I was in marketing and sales. Ambitious I moved up the ranks fairly quick. After a couple of years I was promoted to Division Sales Manager for a Major corp. Making lot's of Money. I thought WoW !!! I finally reached my goal. People - wake-up - money is not everything. Sure people probably think I'm nuts. I am here to tell you the first and most important thing young adult should be asking themselves is what do I really like doing and in 5 years will I still feel the same way. I was more concerned about making money then if I was enjoying my career. No, I was misarable, I would get up in the AM and say to myself oh brother I hate my job. I hated getting up in the morning. Finally after 15 years I realize that my happiness meant more to me then any amount of money. I quit my job went back to school at 38 yrs old got my degree in what I had a passion for since I got out of high school. I can honostly tell you I make less then 1/2 or maybe a little less but I wake up in the mornings and can't wait to start working. I am physical, mentally healthier now then I had been in a long time. Find something you have a passion for, you can still make great money. Not what can make you lot's of money but be misarable. Remember this is something you will be doing for a long time.

Always be two steps ahead of your boss. Don't wait for them to ask you about something, just go ahead and do something. Even if it's not exactly right, your boss will appreciate that you moved forward to try to make progress. However, don't be afraid to ask for clarification from your boss. They are usually very busy people and may not always communicate effectively. Asking for clarification shows that you care about getting things done correctly and efficiently. Finally, and most importantly, take pride in your work!

FIVE YEARS AGO I WAS WORKING AS A RESIDENTAIL COUNSELOR AND I GOT FIRED FROM MY JOB SO I CHOOSE TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL AND FUTHER MY CAREER EDUCATION , AND NOW I AM A CETIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT

It is important for new grads seeking to launch their career to start in a place where they can be exposed to various facets of business, where they have the opportunity to learn and develop while not being pushed to perform. I would compare this to a rookie Athlete joining a talent deep sports frnachise. He may not get the chance to break into the starting line up immediately, but when he does make a starting line up, he does so with the swagger and composure that comes with playing with the best in field.

5 years ago I started in this company as the front desk receptionist and customer service, earning $8 per hour. I now earn $15 per hour, with the title Membership Retention Specialist & Executive Assistant to the President. I have always been a dedicated, hardworking, loyal employee - looking out for the organization and its members, while at the same time NOT letting myself be taken advantage of. The President has recognized this and has rewarded me. I like my job and feel amply rewarded.