Dear Chuck,
I really hate my job. I want to quit, but I was taught that it is better to find a job before you quit what you have. Any tips for finding a job before bailing out of this miserable situation?
Stuck in a Bad Job
Dear Stuck in a Bad Job,
I have lots of advice that will be helpful for you.
Be grateful: The first tip is to be grateful for what you have no matter how hard or difficult it is. Looking back on my own journey, I started working outside of our home at age 14. I have had plenty of bad bosses or just plain hard work. Yet, I always learned something that built my character, taught me a new skill, or benefited my life in some way.
Don’t jump ship quickly: One of my sons was doing contract work for an organization that clearly treated him unfairly. There were lots of reasons to quit, walking out of the commitment he had made. When he asked for my advice, I encouraged him to complete the remaining 3 months of the contract even though he was not being paid what he was promised. He stuck it out. Looking back on it today, it was during those three painful months that the biggest breakthroughs in his career began to happen. Coincidence? I don’t believe in them. God used the character qualities of humility and perseverance on display in my son’s life to bless him.
Don’t burn bridges: You should avoid burning bridges unless absolutely necessary because it forever alters a relationship. There is no turning back to the way things used to be. Once something is said or done, the “burn” can permanently scar. It is a small world. You never know who people know and what their roles might be in your future. Treat others as you would want to be treated. Do not react in anger. Do not gossip. God can change people in miraculous ways. Act as God’s ambassador to bring Him glory. Outdo others in showing honor. Listen and learn from your experiences. Be patient, and trust God through the process. There are times when distance is necessary. If something unethical is asked of you, or you discover it in your employer, do not compromise. If you are in any sort of danger, get help. Seek wise counsel. And remember to hold your tongue to avoid false accusations, slander, or gossip.
Transform your job, or look for another one: Oftentimes, people who hate their jobs have never analyzed the reason why. Have you? What is it that makes you miserable? Are you working outside of your gifts and talents? Are you bored or frustrated with your responsibility? Ask for a new challenge, or a transfer to an area you enjoy more. Are you working with people that you do not get along with? Seek to be a peacemaker and transform your work relationships and office environment. If this does not help, make a plan to find a new job. I believe it is true that the best time to look for a job is when you are employed. Ask family, your friends, folks you know at church, or even a professional search firm to help you find what you are looking for. Most jobs today are found through personal referrals.
Pray: The Lord knows what you need. Invite Him into your current misery and your job search. He can open doors and move mountains to get you where He wants you to serve.
If you do find yourself in a situation where you are cash-strapped, Christian Credit Counselors may be able to provide some guidance. They are a trusted source of help, seeking to free individuals and families from the burden of credit card debt.