OT: Career advice Part II

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Here we go again. 2024 has probably been the worst year of my life.

Job I started in September comes to an end today. I was told a few days after Election Day. Wasn't even given 60 days to prove myself. Somehow it was my fault that they didn't have enough work for me to do, and it was also my fault the other business analyst wouldn't share her knowledge with me. I was supposed to pick up system knowledge on something I didn't have access to. Was also told that "you weren't the guy we interviewed". Today, I am the ONLY person in the office. I'm supposed to leave my laptop, access card, parking tag, and anything else in the cube, take a picture, and text it to the program manager/office manager. So, they trust me enough with all that, but not enough to keep working here.

Honestly though, I never felt like I fit in with this small start-up. Never felt comfortable. These people have been together for over a year and went through a private equity sale. I don't think they completely were onboard with a new person coming in when I did - hence the reluctance to share work and knowledge...yet I kept hearing the BA whine about not having help.

Not to mention, the day before Christmas, I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes. I guess that's what happens when you are so stressed and depressed about everything, you just struggle to get through the day. Christmas itself was just another day.

So, I just need a job - I'll take almost anything almost anywhere but sales. I just don't even care at this point.
I’m sorry to hear that it didn’t work out.

It’s hard to hear this advice at the moment but you must keep a positive outlook and find silver lining - think about it as part of taking care of your health, so dealing with your pre-diabetes condition.

Otherwise fake it till you make it is a thing. Wishing you all the best in the new year and looking forward to hearing how things turned around for you!
 
It's 2025, and my boss still likes to keep work for himself rather than delegate, attacking requests like an eager puppy trying to please, so I sit here literally all day and collect money.
Do something strategic - maybe you'd get to be your bosses boss
 
Do something strategic - maybe you'd get to be your bosses boss
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I am finally doing reasonably well as far as income goes. Not enough to really repair my credit, which is abysmal, at least not in any kind of hurry… but earning decent money these past few months. HF played a big role in helping me stay on my feet during some tough times, which I’ll never forget.

I am however, fairly miserable with my job. It’s sales, which I’m good at, but it’s door to door and the burnout covering a really large territory is real. I got my car in LATE August and have put 19.8k miles on it already. Anyone know of a decent sales, or sales trainer role that’s remote? Or perhaps has need of a good sales person themselves? I’ve got about a decade of sales experience, bookending my time in the military, and a solid 3 years of instruction experience and several certifications as a trainer and instructor. I’m resigned to the fact that this is the lane I have to stay in to make money, and that’s fine, but I would love to not be driving 5k miles per month. That’s killer. And my car will be dead before it’s even paid off.


Does anyone think real estate is a good idea, currently? I am socially inclined and personable with a good aptitude for sales. I feel it’s something I might find much more enjoyable, but I know it isn’t necessarily a guaranteed income. Would love input from anyone (everyone) with any experience.
 
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I am finally doing reasonably well as far as income goes. Not enough to really repair my credit, which is abysmal, at least not in any kind of hurry… but earning decent money these past few months. HF played a big role in helping me stay on my feet during some tough times, which I’ll never forget.

I am however, fairly miserable with my job. It’s sales, which I’m good at, but it’s door to door and the burnout covering a really large territory is real. I got my car in LATE August and have put 19.8k miles on it already. Anyone know of a decent sales, or sales trainer role that’s remote? Or perhaps has need of a good sales person themselves? I’ve got about a decade of sales experience, bookending my time in the military, and a solid 3 years of instruction experience and several certifications as a trainer and instructor. I’m resigned to the fact that this is the lane I have to stay in to make money, and that’s fine, but I would love to not be driving 5k miles per month. That’s killer. And my car will be dead before it’s even paid off.


Does anyone think real estate is a good idea, currently? I am socially inclined and personable with a good aptitude for sales. I feel it’s something I might find much more enjoyable, but I know it isn’t necessarily a guaranteed income. Would love input from anyone (everyone) with any experience.
Sales you say?Have you thought about going the Deuce Bigalow route?Kidding of course..I'm sure something you will like more will present itself to you in good time.
 
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Sales you say?Have you thought about going the Deuce Bigalow route?Kidding of course..I'm sure something you will like more will present itself to you in good time.

Mostly joking and not trying to be an arrogant ass hat, but have you seen me? Of course I’ve thought about it. Shit, if men and women were equally coveted I’d be showing everything on Only Fans yesterday. If I could dance, I’d be Magic Miking my way to the top. I wonder if there’s a niche for male strippers on ice skates.
 
Here we go again. 2024 has probably been the worst year of my life.

Job I started in September comes to an end today. I was told a few days after Election Day. Wasn't even given 60 days to prove myself. Somehow it was my fault that they didn't have enough work for me to do, and it was also my fault the other business analyst wouldn't share her knowledge with me. I was supposed to pick up system knowledge on something I didn't have access to. Was also told that "you weren't the guy we interviewed". Today, I am the ONLY person in the office. I'm supposed to leave my laptop, access card, parking tag, and anything else in the cube, take a picture, and text it to the program manager/office manager. So, they trust me enough with all that, but not enough to keep working here.

Honestly though, I never felt like I fit in with this small start-up. Never felt comfortable. These people have been together for over a year and went through a private equity sale. I don't think they completely were onboard with a new person coming in when I did - hence the reluctance to share work and knowledge...yet I kept hearing the BA whine about not having help.

Not to mention, the day before Christmas, I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes. I guess that's what happens when you are so stressed and depressed about everything, you just struggle to get through the day. Christmas itself was just another day.

So, I just need a job - I'll take almost anything almost anywhere but sales. I just don't even care at this point.
A lot to unpack there. I hope things improve fast. That doesn't sound like a good place to work. You can get your physical health to an improved place. Once you do that hopefully things improve for you depression wise. I respect that you are ready to find a new job. Don't give up. If you keep trying things will improve. You can vent to us anytime.
 
I know this isn't a help to many but if I was younger and looking for a career Id look for a 1-2 year healthcare training program. People will always get sick so the job demand will be there. Many healthcare positions pay well after 1-2 years. Not talking a doctor or long school nurse. Stuff like X-ray Technologist. Plumbers are also in demand. Can set up own plumbing business after getting some experience.
 
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Do something strategic - maybe you'd get to be your bosses boss
I wouldn't want that position. The jump in accountability, obligations and stress is exponential. Even my boss has a lot more of that than my position.

I mentioned it in this thread before that he should be more strategic in his role but he lives in the tactical and is still able to survive his superiors. He's comfortable taking orders from others equal at his level and up and even from lower people.

There are lots of day to day things as well autonomy/authority that ought to be delegated to me and my teammates in order for him to focus on thinking and plotting the strategic. But he grabs the work so that he stays and looks busy.

Otherwise I shouldn't complain. I have a good work situation honestly.
 
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It's 2025, and my boss still likes to keep work for himself rather than delegate, attacking requests like an eager puppy trying to please, so I sit here literally all day and collect money.
Where do I send my CV?

Seriously, I guess you have to get as old as I am to realize how diabolically ageist this whole job search thing is.

It’s a rat race - but no old rats allowed. 😞
 
I wouldn't want that position. The jump in accountability, obligations and stress is exponential. Even my boss has a lot more of that than my position.

I mentioned it in this thread before that he should be more strategic in his role but he lives in the tactical and is still able to survive his superiors. He's comfortable taking orders from others equal at his level and up and even from lower people.

There are lots of day to day things as well autonomy/authority that ought to be delegated to me and my teammates in order for him to focus on thinking and plotting the strategic. But he grabs the work so that he stays and looks busy.

Otherwise I shouldn't complain. I have a good work situation honestly.
Typically this transition to next level is smoothed out by first managing smaller team before moving on to larger roles but I agree it’s a whole new set of skills and responsibilities.
 
My wife and I have a spirited debate she said you can accept an offer and still recruit and if you get a better offer in a week go for the better offer. She said I don't owe loyalty to a company I've been at a week. I said it's unethical and you have to do the right thing. What do you guys think?
I signed paperwork, finalized pay, I think I may have shadowed for a week or a few nights/went through orientation then a day later got an interview somewhere else and had to call them back to tell them I’m accepting another job. I apologized for being an asshole but this was a better opportunity.

Never had any issues from that but like others have said it could depend what field of work you’re in.
 
I am finally doing reasonably well as far as income goes. Not enough to really repair my credit, which is abysmal, at least not in any kind of hurry… but earning decent money these past few months. HF played a big role in helping me stay on my feet during some tough times, which I’ll never forget.

I am however, fairly miserable with my job. It’s sales, which I’m good at, but it’s door to door and the burnout covering a really large territory is real. I got my car in LATE August and have put 19.8k miles on it already. Anyone know of a decent sales, or sales trainer role that’s remote? Or perhaps has need of a good sales person themselves? I’ve got about a decade of sales experience, bookending my time in the military, and a solid 3 years of instruction experience and several certifications as a trainer and instructor. I’m resigned to the fact that this is the lane I have to stay in to make money, and that’s fine, but I would love to not be driving 5k miles per month. That’s killer. And my car will be dead before it’s even paid off.


Does anyone think real estate is a good idea, currently? I am socially inclined and personable with a good aptitude for sales. I feel it’s something I might find much more enjoyable, but I know it isn’t necessarily a guaranteed income. Would love input from anyone (everyone) with any experience.
My trainer works at Equinox in the UWS, where he picks up clients and then trains them personally in their buildings / at their homes in manhattan (taking cash only). Guy makes a pretty good living. Throwing it out there since you’re socially oriented and licensed.
 
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I'm truly burnt out. I don't know what to do. I'm a Global Director at a PE backed pharma company. Currently, I'm easily putting in 55-60 hours a week while finishing up my MBA. Between work, school, wife + kids... I'm just at a crossroads.

I've thought about looking for a different role but I'm handcuffed here. The company has incredible benefits and with my oldest being autistic and my history of health issues, those benefits are as good as gold. I've also got a large equity stake. But I feel it taking a toll on my physical and mental wellbeing. It is a good company. I've been here for nearly a decade. We have some great people. But if you have worked with PE... the compensation is incredible but they will demand blood.

The easy thing is to say just walk away. But it is truly never that easy. I also want to make sure my family is taken care of. I guess, for the first time in my life, I understand what people mean when they say they feel trapped. I've so hard for the last 15 years to get where I am.
 
I'm truly burnt out. I don't know what to do. I'm a Global Director at a PE backed pharma company. Currently, I'm easily putting in 55-60 hours a week while finishing up my MBA. Between work, school, wife + kids... I'm just at a crossroads.

I've thought about looking for a different role but I'm handcuffed here. The company has incredible benefits and with my oldest being autistic and my history of health issues, those benefits are as good as gold. I've also got a large equity stake. But I feel it taking a toll on my physical and mental wellbeing. It is a good company. I've been here for nearly a decade. We have some great people. But if you have worked with PE... the compensation is incredible but they will demand blood.

The easy thing is to say just walk away. But it is truly never that easy. I also want to make sure my family is taken care of. I guess, for the first time in my life, I understand what people mean when they say they feel trapped. I've so hard for the last 15 years to get where I am.
A few thoughts:
  • Break it down. Okay, the you have a large equity stake. How much is vested, over what time horizon, is it liquid? The salary is great-- have you been saving? What do you actually need? Benefits are most important, sure, so probably you're not going to a start up, but there's lots of companies with great benefits. Actually go through the exercise of what you need, what you want, and what you don't care about.
  • Don't make assumptions about what's out there without seeing what's out there. I don't know your situation, but it's worth taking a few interviews or chatting with recruiters and seeing what you can get. Part of the upside of many of these jobs is they put you in demand in the market. Maybe you can have it all.
  • Figure out what you can do to pull back at the current job. Working that much very frequently doesn't actually result in higher output. Can you be more efficient, delegate more, or even just give more padding when estimating things?
 
I'm truly burnt out. I don't know what to do. I'm a Global Director at a PE backed pharma company. Currently, I'm easily putting in 55-60 hours a week while finishing up my MBA. Between work, school, wife + kids... I'm just at a crossroads.

I've thought about looking for a different role but I'm handcuffed here. The company has incredible benefits and with my oldest being autistic and my history of health issues, those benefits are as good as gold. I've also got a large equity stake. But I feel it taking a toll on my physical and mental wellbeing. It is a good company. I've been here for nearly a decade. We have some great people. But if you have worked with PE... the compensation is incredible but they will demand blood.

The easy thing is to say just walk away. But it is truly never that easy. I also want to make sure my family is taken care of. I guess, for the first time in my life, I understand what people mean when they say they feel trapped. I've so hard for the last 15 years to get where I am.
That is a lot of hours and responsibility but it also sounds like you are being rewarded well. How many hours are you putting in to school? Is it possible the job will be okay once school is finished? I thinkbits good to speak about these things. Sometimes people think the grass is greener across the street then regret making a move. Not saying you should or shouldn't make a move. Just want you to really think it out fully before any decision. Keep us informed ☺️
 
A few thoughts:
  • Break it down. Okay, the you have a large equity stake. How much is vested, over what time horizon, is it liquid? The salary is great-- have you been saving? What do you actually need? Benefits are most important, sure, so probably you're not going to a start up, but there's lots of companies with great benefits. Actually go through the exercise of what you need, what you want, and what you don't care about.
  • Don't make assumptions about what's out there without seeing what's out there. I don't know your situation, but it's worth taking a few interviews or chatting with recruiters and seeing what you can get. Part of the upside of many of these jobs is they put you in demand in the market. Maybe you can have it all.
  • Figure out what you can do to pull back at the current job. Working that much very frequently doesn't actually result in higher output. Can you be more efficient, delegate more, or even just give more padding when estimating things?
Oh I have. I've had two offers but both times it felt like I was going from the frying pan to the fire.

Unfortunately there isn't anything. PE backed companies are extremely lean. I'm genuinely doing three jobs at once.

I think part of it is that I haven't been able to admit to myself how I feel... until I just wrote it all out. It is amazing how that allows you to gain perspective on a situation.
 
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That is a lot of hours and responsibility but it also sounds like you are being rewarded well. How many hours are you putting in to school? Is it possible the job will be okay once school is finished? I thinkbits good to speak about these things. Sometimes people think the grass is greener across the street then regret making a move. Not saying you should or shouldn't make a move. Just want you to really think it out fully before any decision. Keep us informed ☺️
I've got 28 weeks left (4 classes x 7 weeks per class). That will help for sure.

I also can't believe I'm saying this because I joined these boards when I was still in college but... I'm wondering how much of it is just a genuine mid life crisis lol. I'm getting to that age...
 
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