Warning signs of a bad job

For the most part, we like aspects of our jobs even though they may not be perfect. However, some jobs just do not justify looking the other way or praying it improves or hoping for the best. In these instances, you simply need to devise a quick professional exit strategy.{{more}}

So, what are some of the warning signs of a financially unhealthy operation?

1. Your paychecks bounce. If you cannot cash a paycheque, you have a serious problem – especially if it happens more than one time. You need to start looking for a new job immediately. Do not delay. Clean up the resume and start hunting.

• Your pay rate fluctuates without reason. When you were hired, you should have signed a contract that told you how much you would be paid and whether your earnings were salaried, commission based, or hourly. If your rate varies or goes down without proper explanation, you need to be careful that you are not being cheated. Be sure that you understand the reasons your rate has changed, whether it goes up or down, and watch for consistency.

• You are asked to be dishonest. Some companies cut corners. It could be watering down products, adjusting scales so they work in the company’s favor, or cheating on time. If it’s dishonest, it’s only a matter of time before the scam is uncovered or it starts affecting you. This is another reason to polish up your resume.

• You are asked to pitch in financially. It is not unusual to hear stories of small business owners falling on hard times and asking their employees to lend them money to help the business stay afloat. If you decide to invest in the company with your own funds, make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. Draw up a legally binding investment document and be clear about the terms of repayment.

• You have to furnish your own supplies. If your company expects you to provide your own office supplies in order to conduct office business, you should expect to be reimbursed.

• You have no supervision or quality control. Last but not least, if you are not properly trained, if you are left alone with no supervision, if no one ever checks your work, or if you are not even sure you are doing your work well, beware. Likewise, if you hardly ever get to interact with anyone else in the company, or if you are not even sure who else works for the company . . . beware.

Karen Hinds President/CEO –
Workplace Success Group,
Toll Free: 1-877-902-2775;
Tel: 1-203-757-4103
Karen@WorkplaceSuccess.com
www.WorkplaceSuccess.com
Creator of The Workplace Success Program (TM)