Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Balancing

Not too long ago, a friend of mine from Darden and I had a catch up call... how's life? What have you been doing? Work? Family? Extra curriculars? La la la... you're what?! Switching jobs already!?!

It's been a year since graduation. I've had my one year anniversary at my employer. Given that I was the first person in my class (that I know) to start work post-graduation it's hard for me to imagine that people who started after me are already changing companies, careers and positions.

The hype at the end of business school subsided instantaneously. We thought we were going to make the world a better place with our new tricks from a tremendous education. In reality, we return to the working world, much like some of us left. While some are faced with daily challenges, others are simply going through the motions. During my time, I've had a couple of challenges, but nothing Earth shattering. My plate is still basically empty and while I understand I am needed somewhere, it seems that no one has the time to tell me where (a couple of changes have management spread a little thin currently). Overall it irritates me. I sit here putting in my hours because I feel I should. However, the hours aren't the least bit productive.I didn't go to business school and graduate in the top of my class to assume a lackluster position.

Over the weekend, we hosted friends for tacos. One of my good friends from school works at a company from which I did not receive an offer even though I did make it to second round interviews (little mistakes...and nerves). Recently, she was taken to a happy hour by the finance department asking if she'd like to quit her rotation program and work full time as a senior analyst. The position was interesting, yet she has decided to continue her rotations and thought it may be a good fit for me.

I'm not looking to jump ship, though I'd be lying if I said I'm not open to opportunities. In the right position, with the right company, at the right price point...I'd highly consider the switch. In the back of my mind, I'm troubled however. I think of all the people I've met including one of the champions of the program I'm in and I don't want to disappoint them. In addition, I have a relatively defined career path here, though I fear my next assignment may be in a personally less desirable city. Then I keep returning to the thought, I need something to do. If I don't get work, I don't build my skillset and subsequently, my resume. Is it wrong to look? I'm not exactly sure right now. What if I wear to apply? I'm very torn. I stayed in a position for too long prior to business school and I don't want to make that mistake again. On the other hand, it's likely I haven't been in this position long enough.

4 comments:

Deadhedge said...

I checked out a very interesting opportunity within my first year out of business school. However, I decided not to take it since I was enjoying my current job, had a good relationship with my boss, and felt like I couldn't leave so early.

At the end of the year, my boss selected someone else for a position that he promised me. There are very few defined career paths anymore and the work relationship is much more transactional. Definitely, interview for that position. Definitely check it out. In today's world, you should interview once/year whether you are looking or not.

I think that I work in the same sector as you and your company starts with the letter H. If I am right, your company is at a key point and you should definitely keep your options open.

I know that I am just some random guy on your blog but based on what you wrote, I was driven to say that you should definitely interview for that position.

KT said...

Hey Paige..How are you?? It's always great to read something on your blog :) .. I can understand what you are saying...

From my own experience, i would say if you re not building your skillset and resume "QUIT ASAP"...Because if u re stuck in a wrong job for too long it's hard to Quit...

Once you continue to be another nut in the machine you just go into that comfort zone and u re afraid of change...i dont kno whether i am makin any sense ...

All da best...listen to ur heart...it knows the best...

Josh Verienes - Political Science MA said...

Great post, I enjoyed every single word of it :)

Liz said...

I agree, excellent post. I can relate, I graduated a year ago and understand. It is a strange transition from school to the real-world in a position that is not necessarily your career.

I would at least interview for the position, it sounds like a great opportunity and you might regret not doing it. At least do that and see how it goes...

Some people do not even make it 6months at their job. It's not like you are definitely quitting now.

Good luck!
Liz-CoolProducts