Stress from New Job
Discussion
Hi all,
I've created a new account to post the following, as I'd like to be anonymous.
I started a new job in January 2021 and believe I may be struggling with work related stress.
My manager had a meeting with me on Friday about extending my probationary period. In short, the underlying message was to listen more and act on feedback. I am grateful for the feedback and am open to changing my work style, but I think the feedback may be a symptom of what I am experiencing in the role.
I have been employed as a middle level manager that specialises in analytics. I am currently one of two analysts, the other being a recent graduate. Given the company had very little analytical resource prior to me joining, the workload has been monumental with a very steep learning curve. I am confident I add value to the business and have already delivered a business change that delivers an annual cost saving in excess of my yearly salary.
In previous roles, I have always been a good performer and/or exceeded expectations.
From reading a Bupa page about work related stress, I think I am experiencing the following:
Excessive workload or unrealistic deadlines
Regularly being under pressure to meet targets or deadlines
Difficult relationships with colleagues or bullying at work (the CEO is extremely demanding and disrespectful)
Being unclear about your job role and what you're meant to do (A job description for my role does not exist, neither do any objectives)
In the meeting with my manager, they questioned whether or not I could handle the pressure and whether the job was the right fit for me. At this moment in time, I am having my doubts. I am currently planning to relocate too (sale and purchase), which is not ideal.
I'm trying to work out whether or not things will get better, the company is the wrong fit for me or I am out of my depth? Are all mid level management roles stressful and require working beyond your contracted hours to keep your head above water? If so, I don't think I want to do it for the next 30 years.
I've created a new account to post the following, as I'd like to be anonymous.
I started a new job in January 2021 and believe I may be struggling with work related stress.
My manager had a meeting with me on Friday about extending my probationary period. In short, the underlying message was to listen more and act on feedback. I am grateful for the feedback and am open to changing my work style, but I think the feedback may be a symptom of what I am experiencing in the role.
I have been employed as a middle level manager that specialises in analytics. I am currently one of two analysts, the other being a recent graduate. Given the company had very little analytical resource prior to me joining, the workload has been monumental with a very steep learning curve. I am confident I add value to the business and have already delivered a business change that delivers an annual cost saving in excess of my yearly salary.
In previous roles, I have always been a good performer and/or exceeded expectations.
From reading a Bupa page about work related stress, I think I am experiencing the following:
Excessive workload or unrealistic deadlines
Regularly being under pressure to meet targets or deadlines
Difficult relationships with colleagues or bullying at work (the CEO is extremely demanding and disrespectful)
Being unclear about your job role and what you're meant to do (A job description for my role does not exist, neither do any objectives)
In the meeting with my manager, they questioned whether or not I could handle the pressure and whether the job was the right fit for me. At this moment in time, I am having my doubts. I am currently planning to relocate too (sale and purchase), which is not ideal.
I'm trying to work out whether or not things will get better, the company is the wrong fit for me or I am out of my depth? Are all mid level management roles stressful and require working beyond your contracted hours to keep your head above water? If so, I don't think I want to do it for the next 30 years.
Are you in the UK - still remote, in lockdown? It's REALLY hard starting a role totally remotely, especially starting a new department, craft or product, and with junior reports. Many of us are clocking up double the working/meeting hours we were in more normal times, as a result of inefficiencies and over-communication to make up for being remote.
From what you're saying, a few things jump out to me.
the company seems disorganised and poorly structured. Are you really considering selling a home and moving for a role that doesn't provide you with a JD? or are you so senior that you're expected to do that yourself - but you haven't? is that their frustration?
I sense that they're hiring you to be a solution to a problem that they don't fully understand properly and as a result you're getting 'right fit'' and 'handle the pressure' feedback.
you may find that whilst they appreciate the significant financial saving (they know, right?) that they're more focussed on 'fit' and personal relationships, perhaps you could re-focus some of your energies in that direction? Quite common for the more analytical minds amongst us.
From what you're saying, a few things jump out to me.
the company seems disorganised and poorly structured. Are you really considering selling a home and moving for a role that doesn't provide you with a JD? or are you so senior that you're expected to do that yourself - but you haven't? is that their frustration?
I sense that they're hiring you to be a solution to a problem that they don't fully understand properly and as a result you're getting 'right fit'' and 'handle the pressure' feedback.
you may find that whilst they appreciate the significant financial saving (they know, right?) that they're more focussed on 'fit' and personal relationships, perhaps you could re-focus some of your energies in that direction? Quite common for the more analytical minds amongst us.
Edited by tapandunwrap on Saturday 13th March 18:36
tapandunwrap said:
Are you in the UK - still remote, in lockdown? It's REALLY hard starting a role totally remotely, especially starting a new department, craft or product, and with junior reports. Many of us are clocking up double the working/meeting hours we were in more normal times, as a result of inefficiencies and over-communication to make up for being remote.
From what you're saying, a few things jump out to me.
the company seems disorganised and poorly structured. Are you really considering selling a home and moving for a role that doesn't provide you with a JD? or are you so senior that you're expected to do that yourself - but you haven't? is that their frustration?
I sense that they're hiring you to be a solution to a problem that they don't fully understand properly and as a result you're getting 'right fit'' and 'handle the pressure' feedback.
you may find that whilst they appreciate the significant financial saving (they know, right?) that they're more focussed on 'fit' and personal relationships, perhaps you could re-focus some of your energies in that direction?
Yes, I am in the UK. I have worked from home the entire time, barring two days in the first two weeks. Within the last week, the option of going into the office has been offered to us. In my previous role, it was hard work adapting to remote working for the first lockdown but after a couple of months it became normal and manageable.From what you're saying, a few things jump out to me.
the company seems disorganised and poorly structured. Are you really considering selling a home and moving for a role that doesn't provide you with a JD? or are you so senior that you're expected to do that yourself - but you haven't? is that their frustration?
I sense that they're hiring you to be a solution to a problem that they don't fully understand properly and as a result you're getting 'right fit'' and 'handle the pressure' feedback.
you may find that whilst they appreciate the significant financial saving (they know, right?) that they're more focussed on 'fit' and personal relationships, perhaps you could re-focus some of your energies in that direction?
I am selling a flat and buying a house. I am not stretching myself to do so and can survive 6 months+ without a job if necessary once moved. The house I am buying is less than an hour away from my current flat and closer to family and friends. Independently to the job, I still think it's the right move.
This is my first mid level management role. At previous companies I have worked for all managers have had job descriptions and objectives. They have typically been cascaded down from the leadership teams. Writing my own objectives and sharing these with my manager is something I am open to doing, but feels the wrong way round.
Yes, it feels that way.
Yes, I made the savings clear in the initial business case. There may be an opportunity to remind them that the change has been implemented and how much that is going to save moving forward. I think you're right about spending more energy on personal relationships. I am anxious about not being able to deliver my workload though or having to spend even more time to manage it.
Ussrcossack said:
if I were you I'd get to the doctors for some medication.
That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
this is good advice, those that say go off for a period and then look for other opportunities forget that this may leak out despite not being part of the formal 'sharing' process.That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
Turn the tables, take on board the feedback, say you have taken it on board and you have a plan, JD, timescales, whatever you need to be clear in your role, if you are not in control, they will adopt the role.
Thank you for the feedback everyone.
Having done some reading and reflecting on my previous roles, stress is obviously part and parcel of a job. And actually, I typically thrive under pressure. I think my issue in my current role is the lack of guidance and/or direction.
I will be asking for a job description tomorrow.
As a back up, I have applied for a handful of jobs this weekend.
Something I failed to mention in my previous posts is that the head of analytics from our sister company (same CEO) has handed their notice in. They have less than one year tenure and it is common knowledge that they are leaving because of the attitude of the CEO. Additionally, a manager in my team started on the same day as me. They have joked that the company may not be a good fit for them, because of the culture, and that they may have to contact recruiters again.
Ussrcossack said:
if I were you I'd get to the doctors for some medication.
That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
I don't think I'm at a stage where I need to see a doctor or medication.That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
Having done some reading and reflecting on my previous roles, stress is obviously part and parcel of a job. And actually, I typically thrive under pressure. I think my issue in my current role is the lack of guidance and/or direction.
I will be asking for a job description tomorrow.
Wish said:
If they have extended probation all is not lost.
However they are asking you to change. They are worried you can’t handle the pressure and to be honest it sounds like your face dosent fit.
I would be looking for a new job.
Agree, I plan to go into work tomorrow with a positive mindset and try to change. To support this I would like a job description and some clear objectives.However they are asking you to change. They are worried you can’t handle the pressure and to be honest it sounds like your face dosent fit.
I would be looking for a new job.
As a back up, I have applied for a handful of jobs this weekend.
Register1 said:
Sorry to hear your probation has been extended.
For me, that would be the signal that for some reason, they see you not completing the tasks at hand.
I think it is time to either go sick for 2- 3 months, take care of your health, assuming full pay, and polish up the CV.
The CV has been polished up. I don't feel that I need to take time off yet.For me, that would be the signal that for some reason, they see you not completing the tasks at hand.
I think it is time to either go sick for 2- 3 months, take care of your health, assuming full pay, and polish up the CV.
softtop said:
this is good advice, those that say go off for a period and then look for other opportunities forget that this may leak out despite not being part of the formal 'sharing' process.
Turn the tables, take on board the feedback, say you have taken it on board and you have a plan, JD, timescales, whatever you need to be clear in your role, if you are not in control, they will adopt the role.
Turning the tables is my plan A. Applying for other jobs is my back up.Turn the tables, take on board the feedback, say you have taken it on board and you have a plan, JD, timescales, whatever you need to be clear in your role, if you are not in control, they will adopt the role.
Trailhead said:
Sorry to hear this.
To answer one of your questions, I would expect middle managers to routinely do some overtime, but nothing crazy. Say 5-10 hours per week, maximum.
I hope this helps.
I'm in that range. Is that the expectation every week? I usually enjoy work and am typically thinking about how to tackle the day ahead by the time I'm having breakfast. And from the minute I log on to logging off, I'm focused on the tasks at hand. There is the possibility that I'm spending energy in the wrong places and hopefully changing tact will allow me to be more efficient.To answer one of your questions, I would expect middle managers to routinely do some overtime, but nothing crazy. Say 5-10 hours per week, maximum.
I hope this helps.
Something I failed to mention in my previous posts is that the head of analytics from our sister company (same CEO) has handed their notice in. They have less than one year tenure and it is common knowledge that they are leaving because of the attitude of the CEO. Additionally, a manager in my team started on the same day as me. They have joked that the company may not be a good fit for them, because of the culture, and that they may have to contact recruiters again.
I've not read the other replies but what jumped out at me was no job spec and no objectives. In my experience draft your own if no one else does. Another option I've seem from a new starter is a 30/60/90 day plan. Write it, get it reviewed and agreed, then proactively report against milestones .
Edited by Roaringopenfire on Monday 15th March 23:03
SWNJ123 said:
Thank you for the feedback everyone.
Having done some reading and reflecting on my previous roles, stress is obviously part and parcel of a job. And actually, I typically thrive under pressure. I think my issue in my current role is the lack of guidance and/or direction.
I will be asking for a job description tomorrow.
As a back up, I have applied for a handful of jobs this weekend.
Something I failed to mention in my previous posts is that the head of analytics from our sister company (same CEO) has handed their notice in. They have less than one year tenure and it is common knowledge that they are leaving because of the attitude of the CEO. Additionally, a manager in my team started on the same day as me. They have joked that the company may not be a good fit for them, because of the culture, and that they may have to contact recruiters again.
That’s what I typically did at that level and what I typically observe others doing at that level. Ussrcossack said:
if I were you I'd get to the doctors for some medication.
That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
I don't think I'm at a stage where I need to see a doctor or medication.That gives you a more calm inside and time to think about the job
All manager posts have an element of stress.
BTW poor form in company with no JD
Having done some reading and reflecting on my previous roles, stress is obviously part and parcel of a job. And actually, I typically thrive under pressure. I think my issue in my current role is the lack of guidance and/or direction.
I will be asking for a job description tomorrow.
Wish said:
If they have extended probation all is not lost.
However they are asking you to change. They are worried you can’t handle the pressure and to be honest it sounds like your face dosent fit.
I would be looking for a new job.
Agree, I plan to go into work tomorrow with a positive mindset and try to change. To support this I would like a job description and some clear objectives.However they are asking you to change. They are worried you can’t handle the pressure and to be honest it sounds like your face dosent fit.
I would be looking for a new job.
As a back up, I have applied for a handful of jobs this weekend.
Register1 said:
Sorry to hear your probation has been extended.
For me, that would be the signal that for some reason, they see you not completing the tasks at hand.
I think it is time to either go sick for 2- 3 months, take care of your health, assuming full pay, and polish up the CV.
The CV has been polished up. I don't feel that I need to take time off yet.For me, that would be the signal that for some reason, they see you not completing the tasks at hand.
I think it is time to either go sick for 2- 3 months, take care of your health, assuming full pay, and polish up the CV.
softtop said:
this is good advice, those that say go off for a period and then look for other opportunities forget that this may leak out despite not being part of the formal 'sharing' process.
Turn the tables, take on board the feedback, say you have taken it on board and you have a plan, JD, timescales, whatever you need to be clear in your role, if you are not in control, they will adopt the role.
Turning the tables is my plan A. Applying for other jobs is my back up.Turn the tables, take on board the feedback, say you have taken it on board and you have a plan, JD, timescales, whatever you need to be clear in your role, if you are not in control, they will adopt the role.
Trailhead said:
Sorry to hear this.
To answer one of your questions, I would expect middle managers to routinely do some overtime, but nothing crazy. Say 5-10 hours per week, maximum.
I hope this helps.
I'm in that range. Is that the expectation every week? I usually enjoy work and am typically thinking about how to tackle the day ahead by the time I'm having breakfast. And from the minute I log on to logging off, I'm focused on the tasks at hand. There is the possibility that I'm spending energy in the wrong places and hopefully changing tact will allow me to be more efficient.To answer one of your questions, I would expect middle managers to routinely do some overtime, but nothing crazy. Say 5-10 hours per week, maximum.
I hope this helps.
Something I failed to mention in my previous posts is that the head of analytics from our sister company (same CEO) has handed their notice in. They have less than one year tenure and it is common knowledge that they are leaving because of the attitude of the CEO. Additionally, a manager in my team started on the same day as me. They have joked that the company may not be a good fit for them, because of the culture, and that they may have to contact recruiters again.
It’s not everyday or every week, sometimes it can be none and sometimes it can be a lot more.
I’d say, if on average you’re doing those sort of numbers, then I wouldn’t personally deem it as excessive hours for a middle management level role.
OP I see this a lot, it is not your fault and it is not the companies fault but I do agree it is not a good fit.
As you mentioned already you might be used to a more structured methodical approach to being introduced into a company. They needed someone with a lot more expeirence to come in and take the thing on by the scruff of the neck.
At this stage you need to asses if can you learn the role and system to the level they require and be happy in the next 3-6 months or not.
Try and keep the probation out of your head, it will add no value to your health or mindset.
At this stage its time to pony up and get your head down even if its for the next 3 months and reasses. It won't be easy but it will be some blood good character building!
As you mentioned already you might be used to a more structured methodical approach to being introduced into a company. They needed someone with a lot more expeirence to come in and take the thing on by the scruff of the neck.
At this stage you need to asses if can you learn the role and system to the level they require and be happy in the next 3-6 months or not.
Try and keep the probation out of your head, it will add no value to your health or mindset.
At this stage its time to pony up and get your head down even if its for the next 3 months and reasses. It won't be easy but it will be some blood good character building!
SWNJ123 said:
I'm in that range. Is that the expectation every week? I usually enjoy work and am typically thinking about how to tackle the day ahead by the time I'm having breakfast. And from the minute I log on to logging off, I'm focused on the tasks at hand. There is the possibility that I'm spending energy in the wrong places and hopefully changing tact will allow me to be more
Depends where you are. I’m in the civil service and there are times where people need to work extra hours but in that event I’m making sure all my devs and analysts are logging every second and n their flexi sheets for time off later on. Mental health and reducing stress is one of the top priorities. Instead of saying “we’re not sure you can handle this” it’s “what can we do to help you reduce stress”. Don’t think I could work in the private sector ever again.First thing is to get clear on expectations and role, and I think drafting role/objectives and getting it agreed is essential. You cannot succeed if no one knows what the aim of the job is. As middle management, this shouldn’t be so much a conversations of ‘is this what my role is?’ but more ‘here’s what I think needs doing round here, any changes or additions you’d make?’.
Second, re hours, I think one of the key changes between junior and middle management roles is that the work can no longer all be finished and so some prioritisation is needed (by senior management, not all priority work can be done either). So it’s important you work out and agree an approach and process for prioritising new work. This proactive stance is also how you get back a feeling of control, vs just fire fighting.
Third, it is possible this role isn’t for you (or indeed anyone). Certainly sounds like a very unsupportive environment. My recommendation would be not to do anything (like moving) that makes it hard or expensive to quit. It will only be more stressful if it isn’t going well and you feel like you can’t get out of it.
Second, re hours, I think one of the key changes between junior and middle management roles is that the work can no longer all be finished and so some prioritisation is needed (by senior management, not all priority work can be done either). So it’s important you work out and agree an approach and process for prioritising new work. This proactive stance is also how you get back a feeling of control, vs just fire fighting.
Third, it is possible this role isn’t for you (or indeed anyone). Certainly sounds like a very unsupportive environment. My recommendation would be not to do anything (like moving) that makes it hard or expensive to quit. It will only be more stressful if it isn’t going well and you feel like you can’t get out of it.
The fact the business had no analytics before you joined and now has two employee and a overwhelming mountain of work. It's about time they realised that swamping people with work because they as a business are late to the party and trying to catch up isn't a great way to run things.
They need to get some realistic expectations.
They need to get some realistic expectations.
sutoka said:
The fact the business had no analytics before you joined and now has two employee and a overwhelming mountain of work. It's about time they realised that swamping people with work because they as a business are late to the party and trying to catch up isn't a great way to run things.
They need to get some realistic expectations.
But unfortunately they won't...currently working a project with a very niche role in it, company wouldn't give someone a small pay increase 2 years ago so they left, leaving one person in the entire company to fill that role who is past retirement age and yet they still just heap the work onto them with 0 backup for when he finally tells them he has had enough.They need to get some realistic expectations.
Thank you for the feedback everyone.
After my post on the Saturday, I made an effort to try and build a plan to move forward. Sadly, I received little to no support from my manager. This resulted in me feeling more overwhelmed and taking sick leave due to work related stress from the Wednesday. After speaking to my support network, including a friend that's a GP, I made the decision to hand my notice in.
I can't begin to describe the relief I felt after quitting.
Yesterday, I received an offer for an opportunity to work alongside one of my former colleagues and am excited to start on Tuesday. The position is similar in seniority and benefits package.
I hope no one else has to go through the experience I went through. I am so disappointed to discover that an organisation exists in this day and age that treats their employees like staff and not people. As much as I would have liked to have stayed and changed the organisation, I feel as though it was not within my gift and was already costing me my mental wellbeing. Although a horrible experience, I feel as though I learnt a lot from it.
After my post on the Saturday, I made an effort to try and build a plan to move forward. Sadly, I received little to no support from my manager. This resulted in me feeling more overwhelmed and taking sick leave due to work related stress from the Wednesday. After speaking to my support network, including a friend that's a GP, I made the decision to hand my notice in.
I can't begin to describe the relief I felt after quitting.
Yesterday, I received an offer for an opportunity to work alongside one of my former colleagues and am excited to start on Tuesday. The position is similar in seniority and benefits package.
I hope no one else has to go through the experience I went through. I am so disappointed to discover that an organisation exists in this day and age that treats their employees like staff and not people. As much as I would have liked to have stayed and changed the organisation, I feel as though it was not within my gift and was already costing me my mental wellbeing. Although a horrible experience, I feel as though I learnt a lot from it.
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