Message #41570

[elkiedee]

I would also suggest trying to move to a different post in local government, at the same time as looking at other public and private sector posts which involve more elements that interest you. Identify what you most enjoy. Look to do training, ideally by getting management to approve sending you on courses - even basic IT and typing qualifications couldn't hurt - whether they're confirming what you can do or helping you improve them. Or there are courses on time management and various secretarial roles.

I found my first local government permanent job terribly boring - took another job with a private company I'd had a good temping experience with (they liked me and I liked them) who decided they didn't like me after all, had more luck temping in various companies for 6 months, then returned to another department of the same authority in a much more interesting maternity leave cover post for 9 months - which also gave me legal secretarial experience. After that I temped as a legal secretary for a much higher hourly rate than before and then another rather dull temp job as a typist, before my present job. Some of my current job is dull but I enjoy other parts. Office politics have been horrific but they're ok at the moment. I amuse myself with trade union activities and other distractions, which also helps me find a way of viewing office politics that enables me to cope with what I dislike.

Even if this advice is completely wrong, I'd love to know how you get on.

Luci