aibu to struggle so early on??

[Faye12345]

I know I am being unreasonable but...Started a new job last month and im struggling already. My old job was too stressful so i down banded to this job. Ive got no experience in this area so its not surprising but today I could have cried. My mentor is nice but not approachable and her voice is very low so i struggle to hear her. Theres no one in the team i feel i can approach. I just hate feeling out of my depth and i know the team think im stupid. I took 6 and 4 weeks off respectively in the job ive just left as I just couldnt cope

[Faye12345]

Anyone?

[RatherBeRiding]

You need to make an appointment with your line manager and explain that you are struggling. In fact your manager should be making sure that you are coping - it sounds as though you are being left to sink or swim.

Be very clear and very objective. What exactly is it you are struggling with? Unfamiliar procedures/technology? Lack of adequate supervision and guidance? If your mentor doesn't speak clearly then I am afraid you are going to have to ask her to speak up. She's your mentor - its her job to make sure you know what you are doing. If she isn't explaining things properly then tell her. There's no need to be apologetic or critical - you are being paid to do a job that you are ill-equipped to do, but they hired you for the role so they must take some responsibility towards ensuring you are properly trained and supervised.

If you don't speak up now and tell your manager you are struggling and need help it may go against you in the future. The company can legitimately ask you why you didn't bring to the attention of your manager the fact that you needed training/guidance etc.

Make sure, at any meeting or 1:1 with your manager about this, that you take plenty of notes and keep a copy of what was agreed.

It's not really the job of other team members to ensure you are adequately trained and supported in the role - that's up to our mentor and manager. I really wouldn't worry about the mentor not being "approachable". Keep asking whatever questions you need to ask for as long as you need to ask them.

Good luck. There will come a point when it has all fallen into place and you no longer feel out of your depth and you know what you are doing. It takes time though.

[Flamingoblue1]

I think this is quite common. I know I've been in this situation and I've asked and always received help. Asking is not a sign of weakness !

[Faye12345]

Thanks guys. I struggle with things such as unfamiliar procedures and i feel stupid. I just feel like i cant cope with feeling inferior or stupid. The job has perks ie mat leave, sick pay so im scared to walk away but i just want an easier career

[Faye12345]

Feeling tearful grrr. Hoping tomorrow will be better