Navigating Professional Red Flags
February 24, 2024•327 words
They often speak of midlife crises and burnout hitting in your 40s, but for me, it's a different struggle altogether: a relentless deluge of nonsense.
After two decades in the tech industry, instead of growing more tolerant, I find my patience wearing thinner by the day. The warning signs aren't merely observed; they're swiftly addressed with a decisive fury. Gone is the leniency once afforded to novice professionals who overlook blatant red flags in the vain hope they'll vanish on their own. They seldom do. When confronted with such issues in my professional sphere, my response is clear: "Enough. I'm out." No second chances, no discussions. It's a wrap.
Companies, especially startups, undergo myriad transformations, and not all signal imminent danger, but there comes a point where distinctions blur. A red flag is a red flag.
What are these warning signs?
Pay delays. One instance might be excused, but twice in a row? That's my cue to exit. A reputable company respects its employees' financial security.
Transition from being respected to micromanaged? Relationship terminated.
From valued input to perpetual shutdown? No thanks.
Forgiveness replaced by incessant reprimand? I'm done.
Newcomers constantly undermining? That's my replacement. Adios.
Disregard for personal life equates to disregard for me. Farewell.
Unwarranted workload increase without commensurate compensation? Time to move on.
Customer refunds turned into a labyrinthine ordeal? Company doomed.
Stellar service swapped for subpar support? The end is nigh.
Vacationers frowned upon or terminated? Company running on empty.
These flags converge into one colossal symbol: when happiness wanes, it's time to exit stage left. And I've never waited for a door to open before closing another. Leaving without a safety net? Perhaps risky, but essential. Learning to navigate the tumultuous waters of change is paramount.
In the grand scheme, it's not the amassed wealth but the dignity retained that truly matters. Feeling undervalued? Take the hint; brighter prospects await the bold.