Q & A Table of Contents
How Can I Stop Being A Square Peg In A Round Hole?
From: Thuy, Oakland, California
Question: I have had a B.S. degree in Computer Science for many years, but I happened to work in a financial division ever since I graduated. I would like to get out of this financial position and work as an Information Technology specialist in the Computer division because that is my career interest.
I need to change my job as soon as possible but the problem that I have is that my boss may get mad if I tell her that I will apply for a computer position (she knows of my interest, and she has been trying to keep me here.)
If my boss feels happy to let me go for what I desire, she may support me and it may be helpful for me to get the position. On the other hand, if she is not happy and I applied for the job, I am afraid I will be treated differently afterward. Also, the head of the computer division may not want to get into a conflict with my boss by offering me the position. Do you see any negotiation I can do here?
Response: You need to go to your boss and tell her that while you have gained considerable knowledge and new skills by working in the financial sector of your company, you remain frustrated by the lack of opportunity to utilize your Information Technology education. Then you should ask her for advice; "What would you do in my situation?" Listen closely to her response; it should reveal her interests regarding your career and the well-being of her department.
It is also reasonable to approach the head of the Computer department and ask him/her for similar advice. In addition, you should be open and honest enough with the Computer department head to ask whether s/he envisions any way to begin utilizing your skills by getting you assigned to joint projects involving your existing department and the Computer department. Once your foot is in the Computer department's door, perhaps your involvement can be increased on an incremental basis.
You need to be honest with the department heads about your situation so that each of them understands your concerns and your interests. But remember to couch your assertions in questions rather than hard and fast declaratory statements. You are far less likely to threaten existing relationships taking that approach.
Good luck,
Steve
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