Started a New Job 2 Weeks Ago and Already Want to Leave

Hello everyone! Today, I want to share my experience of starting a new job and the overwhelming feelings that have come with it. I’m looking for advice from experienced developers who may have faced similar situations.

My Journey So Far

After spending four years working in the automotive industry, primarily with a well-known car brand, I decided it was time for a change. I started looking for opportunities in different fields, but due to the job market in my city—where 80% of positions are still in the automotive sector—I found myself back in familiar territory. Eventually, I accepted a position in an exciting area: building autonomous driving systems. I was thrilled at the prospect of expanding my skills and contributing to cutting-edge technology.

However, upon joining, I was immediately hit with some unsettling news. I learned that two developers were being let go, and I was the only new addition to the team—a pretty significant red flag. As I witnessed the last day of one of the departing engineers, he handed off his tasks to me, leaving me with a heap of responsibilities but no programming tasks to tackle as of yet.

To add to my frustration, I was informed that I would be expected to take the test car out for driving and data collection in the evenings—something I hadn’t anticipated. The Product Owner even joked about working overtime on weekends, and I soon discovered that there was no extra pay for this overtime work. To top it off, the salary I had initially negotiated wasn’t honored, which left me feeling undervalued from the start.

Overwhelmed and Overthinking

In short, I’m feeling overwhelmed and already contemplating leaving this job just weeks after starting. As a programmer, I want to focus on coding and development, not on navigating a chaotic work environment. With all these factors weighing on my mind, I decided to reach out to the community for insights and advice.

Insights from Fellow Developers

The feedback I received was enlightening and varied:

1. Keep Job Searching: One commenter suggested treating my current situation as if my job search never ended. They pointed out that it’s often easier for hiring managers to filter out candidates who are not currently employed, so it’s wise to continue applying and interviewing. They also warned that joining a startup or a new internal team can lead to unpredictable work environments, indicating that I might be better off seeking opportunities within more established companies.

2. Trust Your Gut: Another developer emphasized the importance of trusting my instincts. They advised me to start looking for a new role immediately but to ensure I had a concrete plan before leaving. They acknowledged that every job has its challenges, but if the signs are overwhelmingly negative, it’s worth considering a change.

3. Give It Time: Some experienced developers shared that it’s common to feel discontent within the first few weeks of a new job. They suggested giving it a month or two to see if the situation improves. It’s possible I entered during an awkward transition, and perhaps the departing employees were not ideal fits for the team. They encouraged me to set boundaries and clear expectations, especially regarding the demands placed on me, such as evening driving and the lack of overtime pay.

4. Evaluate the Culture: Another important point raised was to assess the company culture regarding overtime. Jokes about weekend work may not reflect actual expectations, so it’s crucial to observe how often those situations arise. Establishing clear communication about my role and responsibilities can help mitigate misunderstandings.

5. Long-Term Perspective: Lastly, one commenter shared their own experience of navigating similar feelings. They emphasized that perceptions can change over time; what might feel like a bad fit now could evolve into a positive experience as I gain more understanding of the team and its practices.

Moving Forward

As I reflect on all this advice, I realize the importance of taking a step back to assess my situation. I need to determine my priorities and what I truly want from my career. While I’m feeling overwhelmed right now, I also know that it’s crucial to approach this with a level head.

Action Steps

1. Continue Searching: I will keep looking for new opportunities while still employed, ensuring I’m not left without options.

2. Set Clear Boundaries: I’ll communicate my limits regarding evening work and negotiate my responsibilities moving forward.

3. Monitor the Environment: I plan to observe the workplace culture regarding overtime and expectations to better understand what I’m stepping into.

4. Seek Support: Engaging with fellow developers and mentors for ongoing advice will help me navigate this transition.

Final Thoughts

Starting a new job can be a daunting experience, especially when things don’t go as expected. But I’ve learned that it’s essential to listen to my instincts, seek advice, and take proactive steps to shape my career path. If you’ve faced similar challenges