You’re two or three months into your new job. You have the right skill sets, your new boss is happy with your performance, the pay is good, and the commute is easier, BUT…

You don’t really fit in. Your co-workers are always talking about last night’s episode of whatever, they go to lunch together a couple of times a week, meet at the bar around the corner on Thursday evenings, go to sporting events, etc. Many of them work until 8:00 each night to make up for the lost productivity during the day. You like to get home earlier, do your work during conventional work hours, but your co-workers continually draw you out of your office to voice an opinion about this and that, even though you don’t like sharing your opinions about this and that.

Despite trying to convince yourself otherwise, you conclude the job isn’t a good fit. So now what?

• Assess if there are changes you can make to fit in better
• Speak to your mentor or a trusted colleague (from a different company)

• Revisit your resume
• Begin the job search process again

• Wait for things to change and get better on their own
• Bad mouth the company, your team, boss, etc.
• Take the first job that comes along

Ultimately, you must be professional in how you handle yourself during this period of uncertainty. Being professional may very well mean opening a dialogue with your boss. “It’s been two months and I am finding the position isn’t quite what I was anticipating.” Give your boss the opportunity to help you. Being professional also means giving as much notice as possible. The company invested money into you when they hired you, and a new hire will mean more expense. By giving enough notice, you can avoid leaving the company in the lurch.

As you look for a new position, pay very close attention to the culture. Ask specific questions to ensure you don’t have a repeat experience. Try and talk with current employees to get a sense for the culture.

No one likes to feel they made a mistake, but it does happen. It is your response to the situation that will dictate how your current and future bosses view you. Professionalism is a must; without it, you will be perceived to be immature, a regretful hire, etc.

Don't be that person. Be the person who didn’t stay, but left respected.

Best,