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Could do with some perspective

10 replies

dunkindonut · 30/07/2011 23:03

Up until fairly recently, I had a fairly well paid in the public sector. I'd done it for years and decided it was time for a change. I'm quite creative and have done a few flower arranging courses, making bits and pieces for family and friends.

Anyway, I was delighted to land myself a job in a really lovely florist in the village working a couple of days a week. The money is minimum wage of £5.93 an hour but as the owner had promised to train me I was quite happy to accept. Now, fast forward a couple of weeks I have been 'told' that I will be on my own in the shop one day a week from this week (bywhich time I will have a grand total of seven days experience). I still don't know how some things work and I am still making mistakes so feel like I need support.

I came home yesterday really upset as I just don't feel ready. When I raise my concerns to my boss she just laughs it off and tells me to phone her if there's a problem. I feel so annoyed. At no point during my interview, did she mention I would be managing the shop on my own and at £5.93 an hour I don't think I want the responsibility. In about four weeks, my boss is off on holiday so there will be me and the other part-time florist running the shop (other girl is 21 and has a grand total of five months experience).

DH has told me to stick with it as he has every faith in me and says it will be good for my confidence. All I can think is I am being taken for a fool and for that money and lack of training I might as well set myself up in business and do it myself.

Could do with some perspective. Am I overreacting or I am justified in feeling so upset? I'm on the verge of telling her to stick her job...

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MynameisnotEarl · 30/07/2011 23:11

It is scary to be given this sort of responsibility so soon, but your boss must have confidence in your ability to leave her business in your hands.

I do think you would be entitiled to ask for more money for the days you will be managing the shop.

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dunkindonut · 30/07/2011 23:18

Thanks

I think it's more to do with having a day off than having confidence in me. I get the impression that she doesn't care that much (has had the shop a long time).

As to asking for more money, I know that will just be laughed off too.

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wearenotinkansas · 31/07/2011 09:36

I think its quite an opportunity. Stay there for a few months and then look for a better position elsewhere. You'll be able to say honestly that you have the management experience and get more money - or set up for yourself as you say! And, (I don't mean this flippantly) - it's floristry. No one is going to die if you make a mistake.

Sounds quite fun to me actually.

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dunkindonut · 31/07/2011 10:24

Thanks wearenotinkansas

You're right, I should just get on with it. I've always said that being dropped in the deep end is the fastest way to learn. I guess I'm also annoyed in the fact that the job was originally advertised at £6.50 per hour and she battered me down as I didn't have the experience. We agreed on the salary and a review after three months (although I already have a feeling that this won't be forthcoming and I have received nothing in writing!).

I'll do this as long as it suits me and forge a get out plan in the meantime. Sadly, she may regret taking advantage of my better nature!

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wearenotinkansas · 31/07/2011 16:28

aha - set up a rival and better florists.....

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dunkindonut · 31/07/2011 17:06

Moi? Thought never crossed my mind...

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MynameisnotEarl · 31/07/2011 18:45

Good advice from wearnotinkansas - you will gain valuable experience in this job which you can then take with you to whatever you decide to do.

I don't want to panic you OP, but I happen to think it's a very responsible job. Wedding and funeral flowers for example have to be perfect and delivered on time.

Good luck.

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dunkindonut · 31/07/2011 20:42

Thank you for all your comments.

I too think it is an important job. We do quite a few funerals and I would be so upset if I let someone down or did something wrong. People spend a lot of money and it has to be right (in my mind at least!).

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LoveBeingAtHomeOnMyOwn · 01/08/2011 16:33

I would be having a look now at the order book and specially asking/telling her what can and can't be expected during this time. Who will actually be in charge you or this other girl? What ifvthete is a problem with deliveries or the shop etc.

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dunkindonut · 01/08/2011 19:16

The other girl knows more than me and is very confident. We have already worked together and I have let her take charge on those days. When the boss goes away I will defer any decisions I can't make to her. I am, however, quite a bit older than her and have a professional background so I'm not a complete numpty who couldn't dig myself out of a hole if need be!

Thankfully we don't have any weddings during that period. Mind you, if it all goes totally tits up I will close the shop, lock the door and post the keys through the letterbox!