I hate my job. . .

Post Reply New Topic

To give you a little background, I've known for many years that I wanted to be a computer network administrator. I was good with computers, I enjoyed working with them. I went to school for it, I trained for it. I managed a huge network by myself for a year and a half, and then that contract ended. My boss didn't really have any more large clients, so I was reduced to a $500 a month retainer fee. I'm still living with my parents, so it wasn't so terrible.

About a month ago, I got an offer for a very lucrative job. It was a helpdesk position, answering phones, with some field work. Not what I wanted, but I took it, only to find out that it was absolutely chaotic and was stressing me out. The company had almost no standardization or organization, and I was having to constantly harass people to get the information needed to do my job. I wanted to quit after the first day. I talked to my boss, and it got some better. Particularly since I got out of the office and managed to do some hands-on work. I hate phones, and I hate not being able to actually do anything. And I hate having to manage people (the techs) because I'm horrible at it. Well, on Friday, we had a meeting, and we were told that the helpdesk people were no longer allowed to go onsite except in emergencies. That basically just killed it for me. Turned it from a job I didn't like, but could tolerate, into one I just hate.

So now I'm stuck at a desk, dealing with people all day, doing something I hate, while my skills go to waste and get stale. I really just want to quit. The pay is good, but, ugh, I hate it. It doesn't help that it also leaves me no time to pursue my real goals, which would make me more hireable as a network administrator. This job is a total dead-end, and I feel it's actually hurting my future prospects. I've got to get out, one way or another.

Would it be possible for you to ask to be able to go part time? If it were then you may have time for this training? Though I wouldn't suggest saying (to the boss) that you were going for this training, but from what you have said you seem to have honest other reasons. If this is possible? This may not be a viable suggestion but at the moment I can't think of a better suggestion.

It's full time or not at all. Fact is, if I have time to finish my plans, I'll have all my certifications and be able to program PHP. That will get me plenty of job opportunities. Taking this job in the short term is sabotaging my career in the long term.

Can you save up money for the courses that you need (plus living expences) and then quit the job?

Well, seems my employer and I have parted ways. We both agreed it was for the best. I'm glad to be out of a job that was poorly suited for me and made me miserable, although part of me wishes I had the people skills to make it work, or that I could have been happy with it. But I've just got to do what I'm good at. This job wasn't it, and though it paid well, there will be others. I did my best, lasted a month, and that was all I could do. My parents aren't happy with me, but at least they're not screaming at me. I know I did all I could, and there's nothing left to do.