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Job advice

By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Hello fabbers. Not in any way sex related this one I'm afraid. I've been working in my job 13 years and in the last year I've taken on a new role. As of late the workload is so excessive and targets so demanding that it's taking a toll on my health stress wise. I can't switch off after work and I get palpitations/anxiety and even chest pains sometimes due to constantly being up against it day after day. It's literally impossible to get everything done in one shift.

I've thought about just handing my notice in and leaving work, maybe taking some time off for a while (I have a few grand tucked away) and de-stressing so to speak but I know it has major risks involved. I'm not a fan of change at all and deep down I love my job on a good day (which is rare) but it's generally sucking the life out of me.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated

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By *risky_MareWoman over a year ago

...Up on the Downs

Change it before it kills you, stress is very physically destructive.

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By *den-Valley-coupleCouple over a year ago

Cumbria

Would it be a option to talk to your employer before you leave seems very drastic..

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Hello fabbers. Not in any way sex related this one I'm afraid. I've been working in my job 13 years and in the last year I've taken on a new role. As of late the workload is so excessive and targets so demanding that it's taking a toll on my health stress wise. I can't switch off after work and I get palpitations/anxiety and even chest pains sometimes due to constantly being up against it day after day. It's literally impossible to get everything done in one shift.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated "

If it's affecting you so badly then see your GP and get signed off sick. With 13 years service you should be eligbale for CSP but SSP isn't too bad if you have money saved anyway.

I'd take some time to think about it before you do anything rash, like resign. Perhaps you just need some down time to decompress, perhaps go back on phased return to enable you to cope with your workload better.

Speak to your line manager and agree a suitable workload and timeframes for completion. There's only so much you can do and if they're unrealistic in their expectations then it needs addressing.

There's nothing worse than feeling this way but your GP will advise you better and hopefully you can have open and honest conversations with your employer to enable you to get back to enjoying your job

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By *isaB45Woman over a year ago

Fabville

Are you micro-managing?

Is what you are doing within the new job spec?

Do you have adequate resources (including staff) to do your job?

Maybe talk to your manager, since they should want you to do well. Maybe that conversation will helo you..

Good luck x

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By *layfullsamMan over a year ago

Solihull

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated "

Talk to hr and explain what's happening, it might be that they don't know but once they are they have to be careful about piling work on you as you could then claim you were made ill despite warning them.

Stay in the job but be pro active in looking for something new, don't leave for no job and I always think it's easier to find a job when you're in a job

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By *bwitchedWoman over a year ago

Batley, West Yorkshire

Have you discussed the issue with your boss and HR?

I have been in a similar position recently and all I can say is risking your physical and mental health for a job isn't worth it. If you end up on long term sick they will have your job advertised before the ink on the sick note is dry and leave you, your family and friends to pick up the pieces.

If you still love your job and want to stay in it, arrange i meetig with your boss and HR and tell them you're struggling, and discuss what the options are for getting more support for your role. Don't just present them with the problem, approach them with some possible solutions in mind also, and try to couch it in positive phrases about how helping you be happier and more productive in your job will benefit the business as a whole.

Seek medical advice also so it's on record with your doctor that your struggling with work place stress so that you have some support from that angle in case you don't get what you need from work.

Ultimately if you can't get the support and help that you need from your employer, or if you end up losing the passion for the job then maybe it will come to the crunch and you will have to look into moving, but hopefully having an open and honest conversation now will set things in motion to resolve the issues you have. But the longer you try to struggle on and keep doing everything the longer your superiors will think you're coping so you really need to initiate that conversation and quickly.

Good luck, and if you need an ear to bend with someone who understands I'm never far from fab x

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By *ik MMan over a year ago

Lancashire

I was in a very similar position 11 years ago and after talking to my employer realised my only option was to leave. In the end I spent 6 months island hopping around the South Pacific - which was the perfect pick me up before relocating back up north.

Since then I’ve had a few bum jobs and although I’m finally settled am still not earning anything like the wage I had in 2008. It’s a tough call but one only you can make. With hindsight I would have spent time exploring all options before walking away as I still have regrets now.

Good luck OP, I don’t envy you.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I'm surrounded by people in the same department doing the same role and most of us struggle massively. We are overloaded with work to the point where we have to stay on after our shift ends to finish things but then get made to feel guilty if we claim overtime. My boss has even sent emails out saying no overtime to be claimed.... unless we are short staffed or a member of staff is off sick.

Some of my colleagues cope better with the work load but they cut corners and make mistakes and they don't really care about it..... invoices being incorrect etc. I cannot work that way and my quality of work is exceptional but slightly more time consuming. (I'm not slow by any means)

If I were to speak to my boss about it then they may lighten the workload for me as an individual but that would mean my colleagues would have to take on more work as it's all split. Lightening the load in general is put if the question because they are all about money.

I know I shouldn't be ashamed of going to my GP but If I did it would make people just think that I "can't handle it" and it would just be a short term solution to a long term problem. I'm more than capable of doing the job. It's like asking usain bolt to run the 100m in 9 seconds flat when he can consistently run it in 9.5.

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By *orkie321bWoman over a year ago

Nottingham

"I'm surrounded by people in the same department doing the same role and most of us struggle massively. We are overloaded with work to the point where we have to stay on after our shift ends to finish things but then get made to feel guilty if we claim overtime. My boss has even sent emails out saying no overtime to be claimed.... unless we are short staffed or a member of staff is off sick.

OP is speaking to your boss as a group an option? If just one person complains it's unlikely anything will change but if you all get together and speak out then you have more chance of things improving. No employer wants to risk losing all of their staff at once because they can't cope with the stress of the job!

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By *ercuryMan over a year ago

Grantham

Your employer has a legal duty of care to you. If you are feeling stressed, speak to your manager. Be concise and precise....show examples of overwork. Make notes, or have a colleague or union rep accompany you.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

It's been brought up in the past and the attitude is that "It is what it is" and that we need to manage our days better.

I can't see any other solution to the problem other than to leave. I think speaking to my boss or HR will come across as being incapable rather than just needing a little help.

If it was the case and they took on my notes then I feel it would only be temporary before it went back to the way it is now

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Please talk to them. I had a similar conversation with my boss on Monday and he said how can we make your job easier. He was really great and is having once a week meetings with me.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

Thank you to everyone so far for your help and advice. It is greatly appreciated

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Everyone has passed on great advice.

- Your health and wellbeing is greater than any job -

You do what you can do within the hours permitting.

Do not bust a gut which will harm your health anymore.

You do the job to the best of your abilities.

You document evidence of corner cutting, accuracy of work and overload.

Time study case by case your jobs. Document them intimately. Build up a file of data.

Express to your line manger your concerns regarding volume of work, corner cutting and accuracy.

File your evidence with them.

If nothing is done.

File a grievance in accordance with your company rules.

I think it is more pro-active for you fight your corner. but remember your health comes first.

And if you still dont get the answers then the company is not for you.

Best wishes,

Mistress Amelia x

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated "

Have you spoken to your manager about the workload and targets?

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I've mentioned in the past about the workload and targets but it's just overlooked and a kind of shrug of the shoulders moment as if to say yeah it's busy.... It is what it is. But when you have to work 10 hours a day to do your workload and feel victimised to put in an overtime form it just takes the piss.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated "

Can you talk to your boss? If you need help and it's getting too much due to stress that's nothing to be ashamed of. Maybe it's a case of deligating work or a change of work hours.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"I've mentioned in the past about the workload and targets but it's just overlooked and a kind of shrug of the shoulders moment as if to say yeah it's busy.... It is what it is. But when you have to work 10 hours a day to do your workload and feel victimised to put in an overtime form it just takes the piss.

I'd find a new place then mate

I know you've been there for a long time and it might be all you know at the moment, but just go and have some interviews and be very aware of the business environment/culture

You should have an easy time finding a role with your experience

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Can you talk to your manager as a team to explain the workload is untenable?

Does your workplace have a employee assistance programme that’s available for you to talk to ? They could be a good place to offload to.

If you do talk to your GP that’s confidential and they won’t tell your employer.

Are you in a union, as they can give helpful advice on the best way forward.

I’ve always been told it’s easier to find another job whilst you’re already in one. Start looking around, you might find something else that’s more suitable for you. Sign up to a few job sites and get your CV up together.

I hope it gets better for you.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I'd find a new place then mate

I know you've been there for a long time and it might be all you know at the moment, but just go and have some interviews and be very aware of the business environment/culture

You should have an easy time finding a role with your experience "

Thank you mate. And thank you everyone else I really appreciate it as it's such a difficult decision for me

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I'd find a new place then mate

I know you've been there for a long time and it might be all you know at the moment, but just go and have some interviews and be very aware of the business environment/culture

You should have an easy time finding a role with your experience

Thank you mate. And thank you everyone else I really appreciate it as it's such a difficult decision for me "

Take the advice from the fkn 22 year old hahaha who do I think I am?

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By *uzukiNo1Woman over a year ago

Rhyl

Eeesssshhhh.. seriously see the doctor about all your symptoms....and for sure the doc will sign you off for a few weeks with what your experiencing....use that time to relax, get away and maybe re-evaluate what's more important your health or next week's quoter....

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I did just that about 14 months ago for very similar reasons

Having had 20+ years in senior management roles, they eventually took their toll. I was 1 confrontation away from a breakdown.

I took 2 months off, set up my own limited company and did some consultancy work for a few months

I am now back in full employment doing a job that is not as senior and carries a reduced salary

I am, however, a much happier person, way less stressed and have learned to cut my cloth according to the salary drop so I'm far from struggling salary wise

You are way more than the sum of your job. Do not let it bring you down. Get out. It's simply not worth it.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I see a lot of responses here from people who work for employers with a structure and a level of professional care

Whilst a duty exists on their behalf, most companies just want their pound of flesh. When you're done, you're replaced. Every one can be replaced professionally.

I once went to my Director to say that I'd started to have panic attacks

The company response came within the hour - a typed document asking me confirm that the panic attacks were not as a result of my job

No support, just a direct attempt to distance themselves from what was happening

Do what is right for you, not them

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By *icecouple561Couple over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex

If you can afford it, walk away. There is no job on earth that is worth your health.

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By *icecouple561Couple over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex

Just read what Bussy said, I agree with him

Both of us chose to walk away from the treadmill. Success is measured too often in terms of money, status and job but all that's useless if you're miserable and ill

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Don't kill yourself over a job that would fill your position before you were in the cemetery. Life is for living not for wearing yourself down with stress and worry!

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I quit my job about 18 months ago because of exactly what yours describing. I had 2 months off, and I'm fortunate enough to be doing freelance work now to pay the mortgage, but for far fewer days each month. I will need to come up with a better plan within the next 18 months, but a don't regret a thing. Money is nice, but sanity is far more important. Good luck, and take care x

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By *wingin CatMan over a year ago

London

My advice: first talk to your line manager, and make him/her aware of how everything is affecting you - they may not even know how it's taking its toll with you.

Secondly, if there is no change, and if you don't feel you manager has listened to your concerns, consult your GP and let them know of the stress you're going through. They may sign you off work for a few weeks, or until you feel ready to return. At the same time, continue procedures at work with your manager, maybe even taking up a grievance. See your HR department for advice on filing a grievance.

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By *ade and VanessaCouple over a year ago

Central Scotland

I'd take a week or two as holiday or even sick leave to think about it all first. As others have said, if you can speak to your boss/hr/occupational health then that would be a good way to go. Would it be an option to take a step back? Lots to consider before quitting.

Best of luck x

V x

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Sounds like they think you’re expendable- I’d start looking for something else where you control your health.

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By *wingin CatMan over a year ago

London

I really wouldn't think about giving up your job there yet - the real priority is making them know how it's affecting you. If they can't accept it, then at least get what you can from them (eg, take them to the cleaners for whatever you can).

Thoughts are with you on this, and the best of luck with everything.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

Here's my tuppence worth on this, and this comes from a similar background with an added recent complication.

If you are under pressure and it is relentless, with management not offering any assistance, then taking a break and seeking medical attention is unlikely to be anything more than applying a temporary plaster over things but buy you some thinking time.

My view is that probably try to get the thinking time and to look at other options that will deliver a better work life balance and help you address and look after your mental health.

My situation has been similar in so much as I've been in a high pressure role for 10 years plus with lots of responsibilities, hard deadlines, and constant challenge on budget. It has affected my health physically and mentally and I was close to breaking point very recently regardless of anything else. What has now pushed me over the edge now is that despite all my efforts over the years I'm now a casualty of site restructure with jobs moving to another part of the UK and will be made redundant in around 4 months. This demonstrated I'm merely a number on a spreadsheet and that no one really cared about me from management perspective as there hasn't been any empathy displayed. I'm going to speak to a doctor on Monday as going to see about getting signed off as company still expect me to put hours and effort in regardless of what is happening, and I can't face this any longer

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

"Here's my tuppence worth on this, and this comes from a similar background with an added recent complication.

My view is that probably try to get the thinking time and to look at other options that will deliver a better work life balance and help you address and look after your mental health.

Keep your chin up mate, looks like we can both take some great advice from this thread.

I think that for me personally in my situation if I were to go to the GP it would just show signs of weakness and if I did return to work then people would talk about it and say I couldn't handle it etc. It would also be just a plaster on the problem which wouldn't serve it long term. Not only that but I wouldn't want it to be used against me for the future.

Whilst I also take on board what people are saying about having a chat with my manager and airing my concerns I think it would effect me if I needed a review in the future and they asked how I dealt with extreme pressure then could turn around and say I do get stressed or whatever.

Part of me thinks I have nothing to gain from explaining my reasoning in detail to my manager and it will only show weakness and could affect a future reference. Where as if I just resign with a pretty straight forward explanation and at least maybe explain my reasoning in my leaving interview to HR so they get an idea of what's going on there.

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By (user no longer on site) OP over a year ago

I just read that again and realised how many times I repeated myself and the amount of spelling mistakes in there lol. It's been a long day and I'm truly knackered.

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

I’ve been there mate it definitely shouund time to move on- even if you take a paycut your health isn’t negotiable

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By (user no longer on site) over a year ago

"Please talk to them. I had a similar conversation with my boss on Monday and he said how can we make your job easier. He was really great and is having once a week meetings with me. "

So that's how it's done...

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