Why Do You Hate Your Job?

Like many of you out there, I am wondering the same thing. Where the hell did my summer go? And damn, why am I stuck in this ice-cold office while there is nice weather to be had outside. For that, I don't have an answer.

Ok, yes I do, yes I do. To myself and everyone else, I have a reminder; we all chose it. Everyday we choose to go to an office, sit on our butts, and complain about the miserable working conditions. If you don't like what you're doing you have two options:

1. Stay in the job, accept it, and be happy. (Otherwise, stay away from me.)
   
2. Find a different job.

Companies are not loyal these days and neither are people. If you don't like your situation, get out and network. Do your homework, research, talk to people, and spend a lot of time asking good questions.

No, I don't mean questions like:

• How many paid holidays are there?
• What is the salary?
• Can I sleep at my desk?

Those are good things to know, but to really know a company you've got to go beyond that. Here are some suggestions from my recent job search and finding a dream job.

1. Take your time and meet everyone you can in your industry, face-to-face. Today's meeting with a customer or partner could be tomorrow's job interview.
2. Read the entire website of a company, front-to-back, up and down.
3. If they have one, read the annual report. Listen to the most recent shareholders call. Read the press releases. You'll pick up tidbits that the "About Us" section will never cover.
4. Ask specific questions that relate to what you are a looking for in a job. If your current job is so one-track and boring and you want a more varied role, make sure you ask a prospective employer about getting involved in new areas. Gauge their reaction because you don't want to end up in the same situation.
5. Consider trade-offs of a better title, equity stakes, flexible hours, and better co-workers too. Salary is nice, but if you have no life, who cares!
6. Think about how a potential job fits in your overall career path. Is it something you always wanted to do? Does it scare you? Is it outside your comfort zone? Yes? Well then take it!