I just quit my job after having no support whatsoever and doing basically the work of 6 people, while having to deal with a manager that wouldn’t take any of my feedbacks. I’ve been reflecting a lot about jobs. I feel like I’ve been lied to, through my education. I was told it’s good to do great work, and it’s good to work hard, and and it’s good to speak up and change things in order to have a better environment and work better. And the best: it’s good to be innovative. I was told that this is what is rewarded in the workforce. This is also what is asked for in job offers and what you need to prove in interviews and cover letters.
But then, in practice, this is not true. Do great work, work hard, and you’ll be taken advantage of. You won’t be more respected, you won’t get more money — quite exactly the opposite. And don’t you dare speaking up and challenging your managers, don’t you dare suggesting a change because something doesn’t work.
Put in other words: everyone plays this work-life game like employees are here to help the company do great things, but actually companies just want you to do what they tell you to do. No matter your position, title, or responsibilities, the company’s expectation is for you to blindly obey. Work hard — why would they pay you more? You’re already working hard! Work the bare minimum, as long as you say you’re committed — that’s good enough.
Context: working in Europe in the tech industry.
I love to do great work. I love to work hard. This can be fun and fulfilling. That’s also why I chose to do a job that I’m genuinely interesting in. But? Companies are actually not letting you do your job. They want little soldiers, little slaves that do what the big boss says to, docile people who don’t speak up.
First: why as a society we’re all lying about that? That would be win win situation for all if we had realistic expectations from day one. Just say you’re NOT looking for experts. You’re looking for whoever can make sure things continue running in the direction big boss and his friends says.
Second: even if I can try to change my mindset and do the bare minimum while playing the act of the loyal hard working employee, I know I won’t be happy this way. Where to go from there? I actually WANT to work. I have expertise, skills, experience, drive, passion, and energy. I know now, most companies won’t give employees the space to actually do the position they were hired for. So what to do? Has anyone figured this one out