Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
About a year ago, I applied for an entry-level position in a new field, hoping to start a new career. I did quite well in the interview and was asked to apply for a management position, which I did and was appointed. I was placed in my new role and aside from a meeting with my manager every couple of weeks I have been given no training or direction and have been given complex technical projects to do with little or no notice. On top of this, the adviser who was there when I started (and who I relied on for information) has been moved and not replaced.
There a number of big projects which I have been told about in passing that are about to start. These require a fairly high level of knowledge, which I don’t feel I possess, and I don’t know the details as there seems to be a very low level of communication in the organisation.
I’m aware that I am almost constantly stressed and feel incompetent in my role which is a shame as I was excited about heading down a new career path. Should I try and talk to my manager, try and find a new job, or simply put up with it and slowly develop my skill set? Normally I would talk to management but other staff members who have done so don’t seem to have fared very well and I’m not sure it would be in my best interest.
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
