No support at work
I have a really cool job and I love it. But I recently took a job I thought was a good opportunity only to have a supervisor that does nothing but make me feel like a burden and that I am not doing a good job. Earlier today she even told me I was distracting her from her work and dealing with me is exhausting. I know she is busy and stressed but I don't feel like it's right to project and take it out on me. In the interview and initial meeting I was very honest and forthcoming about my experience, abilities, and where I would be gaining experience by taking this job. I also was forthcoming about the fact that I need clear and open communication, and would have to ask a lot of questions, and that I will require positive feedback in addition to criticism. So far she has yet to provide any of that. When I ask questions or for clarity, or try to answer her questions about my work, I just end up feeling stupid. I had to reach out to my other supervisor but after her telling me today that she can't get her work done and is exhausted by me I have a feeling I won't have a Jon anymore come Monday and I'm scared because I have no saving or anything and I have never been let go from a job. My bosses have always praised my work ethic and told me I do a good job despite needing a lot of communication. I am 36 and in all my years of working I have never encountered an environment such as this and I am at a complete loss.
Hey đź‘‹ oh that sounds a really difficult situation. Your boss sounds very harsh and quite self centered. Doesn't sound like she has good leadership qualities. It's tough because without you asking questions, you'd never learn, and therefore wouldn't be the employee she needs. So it's really in her interest to listen and help you - she will have a more knowledgeable employee for it. Anyway I'm here if you need to vent? Hugs.
Sorry to hear this. I know the pressure. I had a boss that did everything wrong and took her power of position way way way too far. She used to call my name all day to assign me all the work of all employees oof the house. Whenever I was clocked in. Its like everyone else was allowed to clock out and just watch me. Everytime something went wrong, she would pin it all on me, even when I wasn't even there. I spent more time defending my position and actions then I did actually making any decision and taking any actions. Whenever I would ask for support or help, I was told that I shouldn't be so insecure and do what my contract says. Long story short, I QUIT THAT SHIT! But I do wish I wouldn't left in a friendlier fashion.
I’ve been in a similar situation of a toxic work environment and honestly I feel like the only thing you can do is just look for a new job. If you’ve had previous bosses who gave you good feedback, use them as references and don’t list your current boss as a reference. In my personal experience, reporting bullying didn’t really do anything so I would just start job searching. I know you’re worried about losing your job but even if you get let go, it might just save your mental health. And it’s pretty unlikely that you’ll get fired since with most companies it takes documentation and they have to at least give you a warning. Hang in there until you can secure a new job!