Resign my job (retail) or not?
March 10, 2013 5:06 PM Subscribe
I'm horribly unhappy with my job, but don't want to quit because of certain reasons. Advice solicited.
So last year, I got hired at a retail store. This is a retail chain, very popular and well-known nationwide (and increasingly worldwide). At this point, I'm truly burnt out and don't know how much more I can take.
It began off on a good foot. You could say I went through a honeymoon phase, enjoying every aspect of the job. We sell technological items (not wanting to get too specific), and as I am a Communications major, working with people seemed like a fun thing to do. And it was, at first. The job became increasingly frustrating and thankless, up to a point where I dread going to work everyday.
Where to start... it's the management at my job that's driving me the most crazy. Not terribly uncommon, I know, but managers are inflexible, not very understanding with schedule-related needs, and are always on our backs to be on the floor. They don't really walk in the same feet we do, so to speak. I also feel incredibly worn out, physically. I'm 26, and I'm standing on my feet 8 hours a day, with lunch and breaks, but it's really exhausting me. Customers are a whole other issue - demanding, asking stupid questions, etc. I considered myself a nice and caring person wanting to help, but unfortunately, I feel that desire slowly sucking itself out of me - I guess I'm kind of becoming a cynic, and that's not something I really want. Bottom line, I feel underappreciated and like all my hard work is going nowhere. There's a ceiling at our store (and all the chain stores, really), and it seems pointless to me to continue. Customers expect A LOT from us, and we're expected to pretty much do whatever it takes to make the customer happy (which is a good thing, granted, but can border on the verge of being unreasonable/demanding). Imagining myself working there all summer and winter makes me feel sick. There's also strict security checks as we leave. There's this inhumane attendance system where points are issued where even if you get sick, you get a point, and beyond certain points, you're fired. No matter what, end of discussion.
The good: my co-workers, for the most part. The few truly nice customers. The few (and when I say few, it's very few and in between) good days. The benefits are also pretty good. We get health insurance, etc.
I've thought about going down to part-time to give me some more time and a source of income. But, even being part-time is not at all appealing at this point. My biggest fear at this point is that if I resign, I will: a) disappoint my family and friends majorly; they may not understand why, and I may look like I'm giving up too easily; and/or b) I will regret my decision and want to go back there, and/or c) feel ashamed of myself. Although why escapes me at this point, other than missing some co-workers and having some kind of routine. I'm also afraid of not finding another job and having to go back on SSI (being Deaf). I don't want that for myself. But, at the same time, I want to be happy and feel free, and feel less of a burden off my shoulders.
Recently, I went to California for a vacation (see my question about that), and gosh, let me tell you, it was amazing. It was the much-needed escape I needed, and I did some soul-searching, and I have realized I miss that freedom, not being bound to such a strict schedule. I worked for the federal government as a temporary intern 3 years ago, and loved it. The pace was perfect, and I had time to think and do things at my own pace, unlike the frenzied, fast pace of where I work now.
I know the economy is bad, I should be grateful to have a job, many people have it worse than me, blahblahblah. I'm kind of overthinking this, and I'm afraid quitting would be a drastic measure, but truth be told, I'm incredibly sick of where I work and what I do. I'm just so afraid my family and friends would be angry/disappointed in me and think I'm a loser/bum/whatnot.
Enough rambling. The point of this post is not to have you make the decision for me (obviously, this is a decision I'll need to make for myself) but to offer insights and potential ideas. If you think I'm overreacting and should stay, say it. If you think I should quit, say it. Whatever rocks your boat, at this point I'm just lost and uncertain what is the best move. Thanks, and my apologies for the loooongggggggg post.
So last year, I got hired at a retail store. This is a retail chain, very popular and well-known nationwide (and increasingly worldwide). At this point, I'm truly burnt out and don't know how much more I can take.
It began off on a good foot. You could say I went through a honeymoon phase, enjoying every aspect of the job. We sell technological items (not wanting to get too specific), and as I am a Communications major, working with people seemed like a fun thing to do. And it was, at first. The job became increasingly frustrating and thankless, up to a point where I dread going to work everyday.
Where to start... it's the management at my job that's driving me the most crazy. Not terribly uncommon, I know, but managers are inflexible, not very understanding with schedule-related needs, and are always on our backs to be on the floor. They don't really walk in the same feet we do, so to speak. I also feel incredibly worn out, physically. I'm 26, and I'm standing on my feet 8 hours a day, with lunch and breaks, but it's really exhausting me. Customers are a whole other issue - demanding, asking stupid questions, etc. I considered myself a nice and caring person wanting to help, but unfortunately, I feel that desire slowly sucking itself out of me - I guess I'm kind of becoming a cynic, and that's not something I really want. Bottom line, I feel underappreciated and like all my hard work is going nowhere. There's a ceiling at our store (and all the chain stores, really), and it seems pointless to me to continue. Customers expect A LOT from us, and we're expected to pretty much do whatever it takes to make the customer happy (which is a good thing, granted, but can border on the verge of being unreasonable/demanding). Imagining myself working there all summer and winter makes me feel sick. There's also strict security checks as we leave. There's this inhumane attendance system where points are issued where even if you get sick, you get a point, and beyond certain points, you're fired. No matter what, end of discussion.
The good: my co-workers, for the most part. The few truly nice customers. The few (and when I say few, it's very few and in between) good days. The benefits are also pretty good. We get health insurance, etc.
I've thought about going down to part-time to give me some more time and a source of income. But, even being part-time is not at all appealing at this point. My biggest fear at this point is that if I resign, I will: a) disappoint my family and friends majorly; they may not understand why, and I may look like I'm giving up too easily; and/or b) I will regret my decision and want to go back there, and/or c) feel ashamed of myself. Although why escapes me at this point, other than missing some co-workers and having some kind of routine. I'm also afraid of not finding another job and having to go back on SSI (being Deaf). I don't want that for myself. But, at the same time, I want to be happy and feel free, and feel less of a burden off my shoulders.
Recently, I went to California for a vacation (see my question about that), and gosh, let me tell you, it was amazing. It was the much-needed escape I needed, and I did some soul-searching, and I have realized I miss that freedom, not being bound to such a strict schedule. I worked for the federal government as a temporary intern 3 years ago, and loved it. The pace was perfect, and I had time to think and do things at my own pace, unlike the frenzied, fast pace of where I work now.
I know the economy is bad, I should be grateful to have a job, many people have it worse than me, blahblahblah. I'm kind of overthinking this, and I'm afraid quitting would be a drastic measure, but truth be told, I'm incredibly sick of where I work and what I do. I'm just so afraid my family and friends would be angry/disappointed in me and think I'm a loser/bum/whatnot.
Enough rambling. The point of this post is not to have you make the decision for me (obviously, this is a decision I'll need to make for myself) but to offer insights and potential ideas. If you think I'm overreacting and should stay, say it. If you think I should quit, say it. Whatever rocks your boat, at this point I'm just lost and uncertain what is the best move. Thanks, and my apologies for the loooongggggggg post.
It's good that you've quickly figured out retail is not for you. So yes, look for another job in another field. Don't quit right now. Rather than do that, go to part time if it's feasible. (What happens to your health care situation?) Part time will really feel different I think. I have often worked part time in retail-- on top of another job-- and found it to be a piece of cake. During periods when I've done full-time hours, I've thought every day of quitting.
posted by BibiRose at 5:34 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by BibiRose at 5:34 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
I'm also afraid of not finding another job and having to go back on SSI (being Deaf). I don't want that for myself.
The answer to 'should I quit my job that is not causing me actual danger/hardship?' is, 99 times in 100, 'not until you have another job offer lined up'. So go look for another job.
Are you interested in moving out of retail into office jobs, based on your Communications BA, or just hoping to find a more relaxed retail position? Do you regularly check any federal job openings, or other jobs? Are there any Deaf groups that publish job listings that you could keep an eye on?
posted by jacalata at 5:36 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
The answer to 'should I quit my job that is not causing me actual danger/hardship?' is, 99 times in 100, 'not until you have another job offer lined up'. So go look for another job.
Are you interested in moving out of retail into office jobs, based on your Communications BA, or just hoping to find a more relaxed retail position? Do you regularly check any federal job openings, or other jobs? Are there any Deaf groups that publish job listings that you could keep an eye on?
posted by jacalata at 5:36 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
Retail sucks. For all the reasons you've listed, it's just a soul-sucking horrible job for most people (unless you're one of the few people who enjoy that sort of thing -- I know those people do exist). You're not cut out for retail, and that's totally and completely understandable and okay.
Give yourself permission to look for a job that suits you better. There's no reason to feel guilty about trying to find a job you like.
It's probably smart to hang on to the job you already have while looking for a new one, though.
posted by erst at 5:38 PM on March 10, 2013
Give yourself permission to look for a job that suits you better. There's no reason to feel guilty about trying to find a job you like.
It's probably smart to hang on to the job you already have while looking for a new one, though.
posted by erst at 5:38 PM on March 10, 2013
Life is far too short to stay in something that makes you miserable if you have other choices, and you do. You tried it and you don't like it and that's fine. You may and should leave as soon as possible.
posted by Dansaman at 5:46 PM on March 10, 2013
posted by Dansaman at 5:46 PM on March 10, 2013
Start searching now, and quit when you find something else. Go down to part time for the interim if that works for the company and your finances. I know my friends and family would support my decision to leave a job that I didn't like.
posted by radioamy at 5:52 PM on March 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by radioamy at 5:52 PM on March 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
Life is far too short to stay in something that makes you miserable
Amen. Make other options for yourself. If it helps, set a quitting date six months in the future. Write a resignation letter (don't hand it in yet), and start the clock.
None of the reasons you gave are about you. They are about the people around you. What they will think. What you will feel from their reactions.
It's your life. People will have lots of opinions about it. Do's. Do nots. When I's. When I didn'ts.
The reality is that that there is only one person that has to live with your decisions. And it sounds like you've already decided.
So make a sensible exit plan and get on with it.
posted by nickrussell at 5:55 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
Amen. Make other options for yourself. If it helps, set a quitting date six months in the future. Write a resignation letter (don't hand it in yet), and start the clock.
None of the reasons you gave are about you. They are about the people around you. What they will think. What you will feel from their reactions.
It's your life. People will have lots of opinions about it. Do's. Do nots. When I's. When I didn'ts.
The reality is that that there is only one person that has to live with your decisions. And it sounds like you've already decided.
So make a sensible exit plan and get on with it.
posted by nickrussell at 5:55 PM on March 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
If it was a totally awesome thing, they wouldn't have to pay you -- the pay is because it's not completely blissful. That is, it's a job, and one that pays more than the maximum you can get on SSI. Keep the job until you find the next one, if your only backup plan is welfare. This is not "I should be grateful for a job and blahblahblah", this is being a responsible adult and paying your own way in the world. Look for something better -- of course! -- but keep this job while you still need it to put food in your mouth.
posted by Houstonian at 6:00 PM on March 10, 2013 [5 favorites]
posted by Houstonian at 6:00 PM on March 10, 2013 [5 favorites]
I am completely ignorant on this topic, but other Mefites are not: does technical retail sales experience give you a leg up on, uh, less draining kinds of sales jobs? There's business-to-business sales, corporate sales, sales consulting, and so on. There are sales-related things you probably could be doing other than hawking goods to retail customers. As a relatively simple step, I would try to find Mefites with experience in technical sales and ask them how to get into that sort of position. Also try checking out questions tagged with marketing + sales. Large employers may also have diversity hiring programs that could make it easier for you to find a related job.
posted by Nomyte at 6:14 PM on March 10, 2013
posted by Nomyte at 6:14 PM on March 10, 2013
Retail is pretty much like this. Don't beat yourself up because you don't love a job that is hard and often not rewarding.
You're exhausted, I understand, but try to use your time outside of work to look for another job. That's the best escape.
posted by bluedaisy at 6:38 PM on March 10, 2013
You're exhausted, I understand, but try to use your time outside of work to look for another job. That's the best escape.
posted by bluedaisy at 6:38 PM on March 10, 2013
Response by poster: Suggestions has been good so far. A few things I forgot to mention, as well as add.
One of the problems with this job is image. Everyone thinks it's cool to work at this company. It's one of the most liked companies out there, and people would think I'm a fool for giving it up. They don't understand what it's really like behind the scenes.
I can float without a paying job for perhaps a few months, so money as of right now isn't the major issue, and it'd be nice to have some time to myself to think thins over. The major issue is my happiness, and at this point, even a week more is not something I think I can take. No, I'm not at danger at this job, but I hate seeing myself feel so exhausted and unhappy after every shift. I am still thinking part-time over; some people have brought up valid points that part-time is different from full-time. (For the record, I began this job as a part-timer, and it was quite enjoyable back then, although the rough edges were beginning to show... but I think that's because I was much less aware of the politics, and managers were a bit more laidback then.)
Bottom line: I am so afraid of my family, roommates, and friends' reactions. An easy choice is to gloss over the truth and say I was laid off, but at the same time, I don't want to lie and feel even more guilty.
posted by dubious_dude at 7:01 PM on March 10, 2013
One of the problems with this job is image. Everyone thinks it's cool to work at this company. It's one of the most liked companies out there, and people would think I'm a fool for giving it up. They don't understand what it's really like behind the scenes.
I can float without a paying job for perhaps a few months, so money as of right now isn't the major issue, and it'd be nice to have some time to myself to think thins over. The major issue is my happiness, and at this point, even a week more is not something I think I can take. No, I'm not at danger at this job, but I hate seeing myself feel so exhausted and unhappy after every shift. I am still thinking part-time over; some people have brought up valid points that part-time is different from full-time. (For the record, I began this job as a part-timer, and it was quite enjoyable back then, although the rough edges were beginning to show... but I think that's because I was much less aware of the politics, and managers were a bit more laidback then.)
Bottom line: I am so afraid of my family, roommates, and friends' reactions. An easy choice is to gloss over the truth and say I was laid off, but at the same time, I don't want to lie and feel even more guilty.
posted by dubious_dude at 7:01 PM on March 10, 2013
Your reasons for wanting to quit your job are all common reasons people give for not wanting to work retail. Perhaps these are just the downsides of the job. In which case, you have to decide if you want to work retail. If you do, great, learn how to better cope with bad customers and invest in comfortable shoes. Otherwise, find something else that better fits what you want in a job, and start taking steps to get there. If you quit with nothing better lined up, you're not really making any progress. It might make you feel better to have no stress for a while, but you'll need to get another job at some point, and if your only option is retail, I'm afraid you'll find yourself repeating this pattern.
posted by deathpanels at 7:17 PM on March 10, 2013
posted by deathpanels at 7:17 PM on March 10, 2013
I'm wondering if the fact you are Deaf has something to do with your fatigue. I work a customer service job myself, and it is exhausting enough without having to deal with extra impediments to communication (assuming you lipread or something along those lines.) If that is so, if I were you I would go parttime while you find something better. (With a caveat-having health insurance is important and if part time prevents you from getting that you might need to come up with a different plan.)
There are other jobs out there. There are other jobs that are a better fit for you. It's easier to find one if you are still working. Go forth and get one!
posted by St. Alia of the Bunnies at 7:31 PM on March 10, 2013
There are other jobs out there. There are other jobs that are a better fit for you. It's easier to find one if you are still working. Go forth and get one!
posted by St. Alia of the Bunnies at 7:31 PM on March 10, 2013
One other thing: If you live your life trying to please other people, that's not a good thing. You need to do what is right for you. Their opinions may be worth taking into account, but that is the extent of it.
posted by St. Alia of the Bunnies at 7:32 PM on March 10, 2013
posted by St. Alia of the Bunnies at 7:32 PM on March 10, 2013
Your company may have a leave of absence available to you, no questions asked. If not, could you get a doctor to write you something that would get you unpaid medical leave?
I get how soul grinding retail can be but unemployment may be worse. Explore all other options before quitting without another job to go to.
posted by Salamandrous at 7:52 PM on March 10, 2013
I get how soul grinding retail can be but unemployment may be worse. Explore all other options before quitting without another job to go to.
posted by Salamandrous at 7:52 PM on March 10, 2013
If it's the company I think it is, yup, people know that it's rough going there. Just start looking for another job. I suspect that your family and friends understand that there are some downsides to any retail job, even one associated with a prestige tech brand, so maybe they are trying to remain positive for you. Or it's possible that they just don't get it. Either way, there's zero shame in moving on from one job to another that suits you better. And even if people did look down on you for it, so what? It's not their life, it's yours.
But - here's what you have going for you - you currently work for an employer that has some prestige (and hip/tech?) associated with it. That will make it much, much easier for you to find another position somewhere else while you remain in that position. I know you are tired, and lord knows retail can suck the life out of workers, but use your frustration and angst to launch yourself into a better position. It's much easier to get another full-time job while holding onto a full-time job. Leverage your current job to get a better one somewhere else. Absolutely, you can do this!
posted by stowaway at 7:55 PM on March 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
But - here's what you have going for you - you currently work for an employer that has some prestige (and hip/tech?) associated with it. That will make it much, much easier for you to find another position somewhere else while you remain in that position. I know you are tired, and lord knows retail can suck the life out of workers, but use your frustration and angst to launch yourself into a better position. It's much easier to get another full-time job while holding onto a full-time job. Leverage your current job to get a better one somewhere else. Absolutely, you can do this!
posted by stowaway at 7:55 PM on March 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
(For example - I have a friend who went from basically your job to a management-track job at a bank. Similar to retail but a lot more bearable. And he doesn't even have a degree and is not close to getting one.)
posted by stowaway at 7:58 PM on March 10, 2013
posted by stowaway at 7:58 PM on March 10, 2013
The problems you are having are widespread in retail. If you quit, what would your game plan be? I think that if you have a different field/better career path in your sights, definitely make the jump. But if you'd be moving from Best Buy to Office Depot, I wouldn't bother. The devil you know, and all.
That said, if you're having specific personality conflicts at your current job, the great thing about retail is how easy it is to jump from gig to gig. You also mention visiting California and how much you loved it -- another great thing about retail jobs is that they exist everywhere. Maybe a change of scenery would make it all worthwhile?
posted by Sara C. at 7:58 PM on March 10, 2013
That said, if you're having specific personality conflicts at your current job, the great thing about retail is how easy it is to jump from gig to gig. You also mention visiting California and how much you loved it -- another great thing about retail jobs is that they exist everywhere. Maybe a change of scenery would make it all worthwhile?
posted by Sara C. at 7:58 PM on March 10, 2013
There's also strict security checks as we leave. There's this inhumane attendance system where points are issued where even if you get sick, you get a point, and beyond certain points, you're fired. No matter what, end of discussion.
Security Checks...not common at most jobs. Your attendance system? Very common.
Customers expect A LOT from us, and we're expected to pretty much do whatever it takes to make the customer happy (which is a good thing, granted, but can border on the verge of being unreasonable/demanding).
Then make them happy. People want what they want and you're empowered to do it by the company. If it's an impossibility due to science, then explain it to the customer and put the onus on escalation on them. People will yell at you. That's the business of customer service.
But don't jump until you have a place to jump to...and if the place you work is cool enough, it might unlock doors to other places that would love to have someone who worked at the place we can all pretty much guess you are working at.
As for your trip to California, well, yeah, vacations are fun because you don't have to work. But if you got somewhere and did have to work, the perspective changes. I'm not saying that California isn't the place you oughta be, but before you pack up your bags and move to Beverly, think about what you loved about it more. The not working or the place?
posted by inturnaround at 8:39 PM on March 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
Security Checks...not common at most jobs. Your attendance system? Very common.
Customers expect A LOT from us, and we're expected to pretty much do whatever it takes to make the customer happy (which is a good thing, granted, but can border on the verge of being unreasonable/demanding).
Then make them happy. People want what they want and you're empowered to do it by the company. If it's an impossibility due to science, then explain it to the customer and put the onus on escalation on them. People will yell at you. That's the business of customer service.
But don't jump until you have a place to jump to...and if the place you work is cool enough, it might unlock doors to other places that would love to have someone who worked at the place we can all pretty much guess you are working at.
As for your trip to California, well, yeah, vacations are fun because you don't have to work. But if you got somewhere and did have to work, the perspective changes. I'm not saying that California isn't the place you oughta be, but before you pack up your bags and move to Beverly, think about what you loved about it more. The not working or the place?
posted by inturnaround at 8:39 PM on March 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
Just wanted to let you know that I used to work at an organization that's relatively well known and most people who know of it feel that they do good work (and I would agree). My father was proud of me for working there and respected the organization. But over time, he learned how it was rough there. I eventually got a new job at a different organization. Now whenever I mention the previous organization to my father, he says, you know, I had always thought that would have been a good place to work. But he gets it and I'm pretty sure he's still proud of me and still loves me.
It's your life. You have to live it for you. You wouldn't want your friends and family to spend 20-40 hours a week doing something that made them unhappy. Anyone who thinks you should do that is not a friend or someone who loves you. When you get a new job, if people ask why you left this organization, feel free to say, I wasn't happy there. If they ask for more info, you can say, I just didn't like working there. You can even crack a joke like, but if you want to find out for yourself what it's like, I heard there's a job opening.
You shouldn't feel like you should just be grateful to have any job because the economy sucks. You deserve to be happy and you owe it to yourself to pursue happiness. Good luck - you can do it.
posted by kat518 at 10:40 PM on March 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
It's your life. You have to live it for you. You wouldn't want your friends and family to spend 20-40 hours a week doing something that made them unhappy. Anyone who thinks you should do that is not a friend or someone who loves you. When you get a new job, if people ask why you left this organization, feel free to say, I wasn't happy there. If they ask for more info, you can say, I just didn't like working there. You can even crack a joke like, but if you want to find out for yourself what it's like, I heard there's a job opening.
You shouldn't feel like you should just be grateful to have any job because the economy sucks. You deserve to be happy and you owe it to yourself to pursue happiness. Good luck - you can do it.
posted by kat518 at 10:40 PM on March 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
You are obviously not cut out for retail, and I'll go farther: avoid customer-contact jobs in general. The problems you have with this current retail job (and it doesn't really matter what company it's with or what they're selling) would be the same at any OTHER retail/customer-contact job: a requirement that you be on your feet, on the sales floor, answering questions.
When it comes to managers being "inflexible, not very understanding about schedule-related needs" ...... ummm, do YOU understand that they're there to run a business, not work around your social life? It's one thing if you're OCCASIONALLY asking, in advance, to be scheduled around things; it's a whole 'other ballgame if you're demanding to take off tomorrow because something fun you want to do just came up. And "always on our backs to be on the floor" where you're "on [your] feet 8 hours a day" and those "customers [are] demanding, asking stupid questions" is pretty much the DEFINITION of a retail job.
The "inhumane attendance system" was probably put in place because too many employees were taking advantage of the previous system (coming in late, taking off early, etc.); ditto the strict security checks.
tl;dr: find another job, one that's NOT retail/customer-contact --- you'll be happier.
posted by easily confused at 3:22 AM on March 11, 2013
When it comes to managers being "inflexible, not very understanding about schedule-related needs" ...... ummm, do YOU understand that they're there to run a business, not work around your social life? It's one thing if you're OCCASIONALLY asking, in advance, to be scheduled around things; it's a whole 'other ballgame if you're demanding to take off tomorrow because something fun you want to do just came up. And "always on our backs to be on the floor" where you're "on [your] feet 8 hours a day" and those "customers [are] demanding, asking stupid questions" is pretty much the DEFINITION of a retail job.
The "inhumane attendance system" was probably put in place because too many employees were taking advantage of the previous system (coming in late, taking off early, etc.); ditto the strict security checks.
tl;dr: find another job, one that's NOT retail/customer-contact --- you'll be happier.
posted by easily confused at 3:22 AM on March 11, 2013
All the things you dislike about this job are part and parcel of retail. I'm sorry. I've been in retail for like, fifteen years. No retail job will ever deliver you customers who are not demanding, bosses who are not inflexible, and work that is not frankly servile and demeaning. And honestly, eight hours a day with lunch breaks and other rest periods? Sign me up. Sounds like they aren't actually that bad an employer, just not suited to you.
Retail is just not for you. No fault of yours. Time to move on.
You need to find yourself another job away from retail. If you can afford to just quit, just quit, and screw the haters.
posted by Jilder at 6:41 AM on March 11, 2013
Retail is just not for you. No fault of yours. Time to move on.
You need to find yourself another job away from retail. If you can afford to just quit, just quit, and screw the haters.
posted by Jilder at 6:41 AM on March 11, 2013
Well, welcome to the RW. What you are describing is a typical retail job. Now you know, you don't like retail.
Hang in there, and apply for other jobs. If you liked working for the federal government, then start applying for jobs at USAjobs.gov. It will take awhile, but eventually, you'll get a good job.
In this economy, I'd hesitate to just quit, without having another job. This is because I'm a grownup and I am responsbile for keeping body and soul together.
Yes, being on vacation is awesome! It would be nice if we could always be on vacation, but alas, unless we win the lottery, that's not in the cards.
One thing I might recommend is working for the IRS. They work from January through August, then they're off for 4 months. It's a good job for someone who like a alot of time off.
You're in DC, so you have a TON of federal job options.
Gird your loins and power through your current job and work like hell to find one you like more.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 7:21 AM on March 11, 2013
Hang in there, and apply for other jobs. If you liked working for the federal government, then start applying for jobs at USAjobs.gov. It will take awhile, but eventually, you'll get a good job.
In this economy, I'd hesitate to just quit, without having another job. This is because I'm a grownup and I am responsbile for keeping body and soul together.
Yes, being on vacation is awesome! It would be nice if we could always be on vacation, but alas, unless we win the lottery, that's not in the cards.
One thing I might recommend is working for the IRS. They work from January through August, then they're off for 4 months. It's a good job for someone who like a alot of time off.
You're in DC, so you have a TON of federal job options.
Gird your loins and power through your current job and work like hell to find one you like more.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 7:21 AM on March 11, 2013
I've done a lot of retail. You have to have a positive attitude towards customers, or you get miserable. It helps if you like the product.
Drink coffee, and smile and be upbeat.
Compliment people: Nice scarf, Those jeans accentuate your long legs, Where'd you get that great haircut, etc. Don't lie, just look for nice things to say.
Go out with co-workers, and vent a little.
Get sunshine - go out at lunch and breaks and have a quick walk, or sit on a bench in the sun; malls are deadening.
Do a great job - help that doofus find the perfect tshirt, assist that Mom with a gift for her kid, make sure the shirts are folded with military precision, and take pride in it. If the job isn't worth doing well, then get another.
Who cares if it's cool if they treat you like a thief, and probably underpay you. Ask around, see who's hiring. More $ is cooler than working at a cool place.
posted by Mom at 12:02 PM on March 11, 2013 [1 favorite]
Drink coffee, and smile and be upbeat.
Compliment people: Nice scarf, Those jeans accentuate your long legs, Where'd you get that great haircut, etc. Don't lie, just look for nice things to say.
Go out with co-workers, and vent a little.
Get sunshine - go out at lunch and breaks and have a quick walk, or sit on a bench in the sun; malls are deadening.
Do a great job - help that doofus find the perfect tshirt, assist that Mom with a gift for her kid, make sure the shirts are folded with military precision, and take pride in it. If the job isn't worth doing well, then get another.
Who cares if it's cool if they treat you like a thief, and probably underpay you. Ask around, see who's hiring. More $ is cooler than working at a cool place.
posted by Mom at 12:02 PM on March 11, 2013 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Definitely a lot of food for thought here. I can see all perspectives, really. At first, I was deadset on resigning, but now I'm thinking about maybe doing part-time instead. I do remember feeling much less stressed as a part-timer. It's weird thinking of going back to part-time, with the pay being reduced (same hourly rate, just earning less), but health insurance is still offered at the part-time level.
And my store is in a mall, which may be part of the reason it's not the healthiest environment.
One thing of note: the attendance system is not common in retail. I've spoken to people who work at Best Buy, Target, Office Depot, Staples, among others, and they said there were no points. My co-worker was sick for a week, had a documented doctors note, and still got a point. Very unfair and inhumane. I've known of some people who were fired despite having valid, documented health issues, because of the points they accurred while sick.
Another point to note: when I interned for the federal government, I teleworked for 3 days a week and went into the office 2 days a week. I didn't have any job experience in-between, so that may be why this is such a hard adjustment. Especially in a chaotic mall environment.
posted by dubious_dude at 12:49 PM on March 11, 2013
And my store is in a mall, which may be part of the reason it's not the healthiest environment.
One thing of note: the attendance system is not common in retail. I've spoken to people who work at Best Buy, Target, Office Depot, Staples, among others, and they said there were no points. My co-worker was sick for a week, had a documented doctors note, and still got a point. Very unfair and inhumane. I've known of some people who were fired despite having valid, documented health issues, because of the points they accurred while sick.
Another point to note: when I interned for the federal government, I teleworked for 3 days a week and went into the office 2 days a week. I didn't have any job experience in-between, so that may be why this is such a hard adjustment. Especially in a chaotic mall environment.
posted by dubious_dude at 12:49 PM on March 11, 2013
This thread is closed to new comments.
Or look for another job... while you're still working at this one. Do everything you can so your jobs overlap.
posted by Madamina at 5:17 PM on March 10, 2013 [3 favorites]