This Isn’t What I Signed Up To

The transition from military to civlian life is not easy and you should be prepared for some trying times.

On occasion, ex military personnel will find themselves in an environment that is not what they expected, here we are talking about a work environment, but this could equally apply anywhere.

How will you recognise when this happens to you?  That’s not such a silly question because it’s easy to be caught off guard.

So what are the warning signs?  Well it’s unlikely to show up as an acute annoyance with just one issue or person.  It is more likely you will experience a gradual loss of productivity; perhaps a growing sense of frustration and often a sense of alienation. At first it can be easy to mistake your feelings for what most people experience when they are learning the ropes in a new job or task but it is more likely to arise after 3 months or so in your new role.

If you notice this happening don’t look the other way and assume it will pass.  Equally, it’s important not to overreact. What you should do it ask yourself some questions and aim to clear up any confusion as soon as possible.

Think clearly about what you expected the role would entail and compare this to what you feel the role is now and communicate this to your line manager.  Do this in a clear, concise, well thought out and positive fashion as soon as you can.

Keep in mind that if you are unhappy and are not in the role or environment that you expected, then you are not performing to your potential and this is not good for either you or your employer.  If this is the case you may be better off parting company on amicable terms with each of you learning from the experience.

And reaching the decision to leave a role which is clearly not right for you is not quitting.  It’s changing course to the right path.

However, I would urge you to test yourself.  You do need to be certain that you’re not just feeling uncomfortable; out of your comfort zone because you are expected to learn new skills and experience different working practices.  It’s human nature to want to step back into feeling safe, secure and comfortable and if you do, it’s also a sure fire way to remain static, frustrated and bored.

If you do decide to part company with an employer or business partner, the key is to remember that it’s not personal, for either of you.  There maybe disappointment and frustration, possibly on both sides, but if you are professional, then your decision is likely to be respected.

Image by Jim Linwood via Flickr