Is it the wrong job or wrong company culture?

In the current era of burgeoning startups and corporate giants, identifying the 'right' job has become an intricate task, often leading individuals to question, "Is it the wrong job or wrong company culture?" The two concepts, though interlinked, have their unique significances and consequences. This article explores both situations, shedding light on understanding, managing, and making informed decisions.

The concept of the 'wrong job'

In the universe of employment, the 'wrong job' is often characterised as a role that misaligns an individual's skills, interests, career aspirations, and lifestyle needs. It is a good job but only fits you personally.

Imagine waking up in dread rather than enthusiasm. You clock in your hours, but your mind seeks solace in thoughts of a different life. Tasks that should feel rewarding seem monotonous and draining. You feel detached from your work, disengaged from your role, and disheartened by your lack of growth.

Nevertheless, how can we accurately discern if it is the wrong job? Indicators can vary from person to person, but several common signs can guide you. The constant feeling of being overwhelmed or stressed, lacking passion or motivation, being undervalued, or not seeing a clear career path might suggest you are in the wrong job.

However, distinguishing a wrong job from a bad day or week is crucial. Everyone has off days, and even the best jobs can have stressful periods. However, it is time to reevaluate when those off days become the norm rather than the exception.

The impact of company culture

Conversely, 'company culture' is an umbrella term encompassing the collective values, beliefs, attitudes, practices, and behaviours that define an organisation: leadership style, company mission, ethics, expectations, and more influence your work environment.

Often, it is not the job but the environment that creates dissatisfaction. Working in a toxic culture with a lack of trust, poor communication, no teamwork, constant fear of making mistakes, or feeling undervalued can make even the right job feel wrong.

The wrong company culture can decrease job satisfaction, employee morale, productivity, and well-being. It can make talented employees leave their positions, not because they hate their jobs, but because they cannot thrive in a hostile environment.

The intersection of job and culture

Sometimes, the line between the wrong job and company culture blurs. For instance, a role may be perfect on paper, aligning perfectly with your skills and career path. Still, the company culture might hinder you from performing to your best abilities or achieving satisfaction.

It's a journey, not a destination. It's about continuous learning, adapting, and seeking better alignment between you and what you do.

On the other hand, you might be in a role that only partially suits your professional aspirations. Still, the company culture might be so nurturing and supportive that it makes up for the job's deficiencies. This underscores how deeply interwoven position and culture determine overall job satisfaction.

Managing the wrong job

Several strategies can help you manage the situation if you are in the wrong job.

• Firstly, thoroughly assess your strengths, weaknesses, interests, values, and career goals. This self-awareness can help clarify what you want in your job and professional life.
• Next, seek a mentor or career coach. They can provide a fresh perspective, offer guidance, and help plan your career trajectory.
• Consider seeking new opportunities within your current organisation that better align with your goals. Speak openly with your supervisors about your aspirations and see if there is room for growth or change.
• Lastly, if your current organisation does not offer the right opportunities, consider transitioning to a new role in a different organisation. Research industries and positions that align with your passions and skills, network with professionals in those areas, and consider further education or training if necessary.

Addressing the wrong company culture

If the issue lies in the company culture, the approach will differ.

• Start by identifying the aspects of the culture that are negatively impacting you. Pinpointing the problems can help address them.
• Once you have identified the issues, consider discussing them with your manager or HR, provided you feel comfortable and believe it could lead to positive change. Sometimes, constructive feedback can help management realise the need for change.
• However, consider a new organisation if your concerns are dismissed, or the culture is deeply ingrained and resistant to change. When researching potential new employers, look beyond the job role and benefits. Try to get a sense of the company's culture through reviews, informational interviews, and asking pointed questions during the interview process.

The pursuit of alignment

Whether it is the wrong job or company culture, the core issue is more alignment between an individual's values and aspirations and their professional environment or role. Recognising this misalignment is the first step in addressing the issue. Remember, wanting a job that utilises your skills and passions and offers a supportive, positive environment is natural.

Your job is a significant part of your life, and it is crucial to make it count. It is OK to admit that you are in the wrong job or company culture and seek better alignment elsewhere. The pursuit of happiness is not limited to our personal lives; it also extends to our professional lives.

Every job will have challenges, and every company culture will have quirks. The 'right' job or 'right' company culture is not about finding a romantic work environment without stress or challenges. Instead, it is about finding a place where challenges feel worth tackling, where your skills are put to good use, your growth is encouraged, and your well-being is valued.

It's a journey, not a destination. It's about continuous learning, adapting, and seeking better alignment between you and what you do. It's about finding that sweet spot where personal satisfaction and professional fulfilment converge. It's about finding that sweet spot where we ought to be.