The first “real” job is always more than just a salary; it’s about experience, mistakes, initial professional victories, and doubts. However, how to understand when it’s time to move on, rather than just waiting out a difficult period, let’s figure it out.
How to understand when your first job no longer makes you happy / © Associated Press
Recently, actress Emily Blunt was asked to give advice to young women who hate their jobs. Her answer was simple: quit and do what you love, even if it doesn’t bring in a lot of money.
These words sparked heated discussions. Some supported the idea, while others noted that not everyone can afford to leave their job without a financial “cushion.” And they are right; the decision to quit is almost never simple.
This is especially true for your first “adult” job. It’s here that many first encounter the question of whether it’s a temporary crisis or a sign that it’s time to move on. RTÉ has explored what signals truly indicate that it’s time for a change.
“Nudges” That Prompt Reassessment of Your Job
These moments can be called “nudges”—events that force us to pause and re-evaluate our relationship with our work.
The cause could be a major professional setback, an unpleasant remark from a manager, the dismissal of a favorite colleague, or even significant changes in personal life. Such moments are particularly common within the first year of employment when expectations do not align with reality.
However, it’s important not to make decisions based on emotions.
Don’t Rush to Write Your Resignation
One bad day doesn’t mean you need to leave your job. It’s better to honestly assess your relationship with your work regularly, approximately every three to six months. This approach helps distinguish short-term disappointment from genuine problems. Ask yourself a few questions:
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Is this problem consuming all your energy?
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Does this job align with your professional goals?
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Do the drawbacks outweigh all the good this position offers you?
If the answer to at least one of these questions is “yes,” it might be time to act.
Talk to Your Manager First
Many young professionals are afraid to discuss difficulties. They are convinced that any criticism will damage their reputation.
Indeed, managers sometimes undervalue employees who only speak about problems. However, the situation changes if an individual approaches not only with a complaint but also with a realistic solution that will benefit the company. Even if the conversation doesn’t yield results, it’s worthwhile. You will at least know that you did everything possible before deciding to quit.
Don’t Jump into the Unknown
If the problem isn’t resolved, the next step is to calmly assess your options. Searching for a new job can take weeks, months, or sometimes even years. And that’s perfectly normal.
During this period, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism. If you’ve already mentally checked out, your colleagues will quickly notice. Decreased motivation and indifference can negatively impact your reputation even before you find a new position.
How to Resign Properly
Once a new job is secured, it’s time to announce your decision. It’s best to do this in person or during a video meeting with your manager, rather than via a message or email. Explain your reason for leaving, adhere to the notice period stipulated in your contract, and focus not on criticizing the company but on the new opportunities opening up for you.
It’s equally important to conscientiously complete all your tasks, hand over projects to colleagues, and remain engaged until your last working day. Professionals even advise, if possible, to give slightly earlier notice of resignation and thank the team for the shared experience.
A first job rarely becomes the last. However, how you leave it can influence your entire future career. Don’t burn bridges, even if the decision was difficult. The professional world is much smaller than it seems, and increasingly, specialists return to their former employers in new roles, with greater experience and new opportunities.
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