How long would you give new job before deciding it was the wrong decision?

[CakeBeTheFoodOfLove]

Started a new job 3 weeks ago. It is a complete change in industry and I'm struggling. I was very experienced in my previous job, had the qualifications and 16 years experience. I was also only working two days a week but new job is five days. I'm really not enjoying working more hours (who does!) But I'm also missing my previous job and not sure I'm going to be as good at the new job/enjoy it as much. Do I give it longer before deciding to pack it in?

Minimum 3 months

I would also say 3 months. It takes that long to get to grips with a role and 6 months to really be able to perform it with minimal input. You probably are still grieving slightly for your old role and being an expert in it. This new job might not be your dream job but you do need to give it time to settle in. Working additional hours won't help either, when I worked 2 days it was lovely, almost more like a nice hobby than a job. When I went back to 5 days it was shit

Depends if you have old job to go back to (if so I might act quickly). Otherwise I would invest 6 months in learning the role and request part time hours after that.

I would always have my old job to go back to - they are in desperate need of someone qualified and experienced like me and were very disappointed to lose me. I think knowing that is complicating the issue though - maybe if that wasn't the case I would try harder to enjoy the new job.

Why did you leave your old job?

What made you change jobs?
Prepare a list of pros and cons of going back.

I made the wrong choice once before and knew within days it was not the job for me, however I wouldn't have gone back to the job I left as the cons were too many. Fortunately I had other offers to consider.

I wanted to try something new and new job is an insight into a possible further career choice which I have decided against now.

I knew within days twice, but both times I heard three months is best.

Why did you change? If you genuinely think you've made the wrong call, on reflection, there's no shame in rectifying that quickly. Just don't jump back and then change your mind again.

I agree with the 3 months. Could you approach your previous place and see if they’d up your days? (If you want to)

My previous place wanted me to work more days but I was happy with two. New job was advertised as five days a week but hours are 8.30 until 3 so still not fully full time but more than I was doing and more than I wanted to do. It was the price I was prepared to pay to try out this particular job but I feel like I've bitten off more than I can chew.

At least 3 months, more like 6 though.
It’s a big change and when under pressure your instinct is to run back to what is safe and familiar. Be brave!
If you hate it after 3+ then fair enough, but 3 weeks is no time at all.

I think you've hit the nail on the head Megan re instinct. I've never been one for change!