LW should've sent this one to Ask a Manager

[conuly]

DEAR ABBY: I'm struggling with what to do about my first job out of college. I've been here for four months, and while I expected a learning curve, I didn't expect the environment to feel so hostile. My boss yells at me across the office for small, easily fixable mistakes. The latest incident involved her slamming her hands on the table several times and shouting, "What are you talking about?" while I was trying to clarify a question. I couldn't even get my words out.

I'm in the second round of interviews for another job with a different company, and I'm torn about what to do. My parents think I should stick it out to avoid being seen as a job hopper. But I feel anxious going into work every day. This environment is eroding my confidence.

Furthermore, I will be moving to a new town with my fiance next year, so I'm wondering if it's smarter to stay for another several months or take the new job (which will be remote, if I get it) even though I'm worried I might not like that one either.

Am I too sensitive? Should I leave a job this quickly, or push through until my move? How do I make the right decision when I feel guilty no matter what I choose? -- CONFLICTED IN NEBRASKA

DEAR CONFLICTED: This is your first job. Because you will be moving next year, rather than jump to a new one, stick to the one you have because it will look better on your resume. Your boss may be difficult, but she also may be dealing with stresses about which you know nothing. It might benefit you to talk with the other employees about how they cope when something like this happens. They may be able to offer some helpful suggestions.

Link

Comments

[conuly]

A string of short term jobs may be a concern. One, even if it's your First Adult Job, is less of one. People have their reasons! LW should take that new job. If, somewhere down the line, people ask "Why did you leave your first job so quickly" they can just say "The working conditions were much better".

[torachan]

Since the new job is remote, they could even just say they knew they would be moving soon and took a remote job so that they didn't have to scramble to find something when they were moving.

[ashbet]

This is the rationale I would use, that you changed jobs because you relocated.

[green_grrl]

Alison would absolutely say, “Get out.” And follow with an explanation that a bad manager/job can really warp your understanding of what a normal environment is—especially when it’s your first job.