Not the job you signed up for… What now?

We’ve all been there: you land what seems like the perfect job, but soon realise it's not quite what you signed up for. So, what now?

🔍 The Simple Power of Job Descriptions
A well-crafted job description is crucial. It should be thoroughly researched, clearly defined, and transparently communicated. This can prevent mismatched expectations and ensure everyone is on the same page from the start.

💬 What to Do If You’re Already in the Role
⭐️Assess the Situation: Identify the specific aspects of the job that don’t align with your expectations.
⭐️Communicate: Have an open discussion with your manager about your role and your concerns.
⭐️Seek Opportunities: Look for ways to align your responsibilities with your skills and interests.
⭐️Evaluate Options: Consider if the role can be adjusted or if a different position within the company might be a better fit.

A clear and detailed job description can make all the difference. Ensure you know what you're getting into before you start. But if you find yourself in a mismatched role, remember there are steps you can take to realign your career path.

I once found myself in a similar situation when I was given the role of helping with Investor Relations at Arrow by the CEO—a sort of high-potential assignment. At first, I struggled because the job wasn’t as billed and didn’t seem like a good fit. But after following steps like those above, I began to see the potential in the role. It ultimately became one of the most important jobs I ever had, preparing me to be a CEO of a public company. Understanding how investors think, feel, and operate was a critical part of the top job years later.