New Work is stressing me out!!

[Tahlia1]

Hi to all,

I'm currently 17 years of age, I started a new job recently. Its in the fast food industry. I have been there for 3.5 months and when I even think about going to work, I DREAD IT! When I arrive at work, I'm nervous and anxious the whole shift and I am confused why. Does anyone understand or know why this happens and have you ever felt like this. I'm not sure if I quit. If I do, I could potentially be on the DOLL and that isn't the best.

[BballJ]

Hi Tahlia ,

Firstly, welcome to the forums.

I have seen many people come on the forums looking for advice on anxiety and work. It is something that goes hand in hand with a lot of people so you are not alone in these feelings.

Do you know roughly when the anxiety started? Has it been there the whole time since you started or did something happen on a shift one day that bought it on? Just trying to get a better understanding of where you are coming from so I can give the best advice possible.

Please, post back as much as you like, we are always happy to talk.

My best for you,

Jay

[Tahlia1]

Thanks for listening Jay,

I guess it started from my first shift. Yes I deal with customers and thats not directly the issue but whenever a member makes a mistake, someone else from the team will take a photo of the mistake, write a disgruntled and judgemental comment. This gets posted on our facebook group chat. Then the manager views it and comments back saying they are disappointed. I feel like that is very unprofessional. There is also a lot of drama between my fellow members. I would try and run away from it but I can't cause its a store and you just have to bare it every shift. It makes me uncomfortable and uneasy about going to work.

[Tahlia1]

Thank you Jay,

I guess it all started on my first shift. I did not recieve the appropriate number of hours for training. The manager promised 15hrs but we really received 1 hour. If you make a mistake in this store, some other team member will take a photo of your mistake and post it on the facebook group chat so everyone else can see. It makes me feel uncomfortable and uneasy about working there. The manager responds with a disappointing comment and the others write judgemental responses. I have stayed positive but they make me feel terrible for the simplest mistakes. I literally get stressed, anxious and upset when I think about going to work. I want to quit but I want to make sure I have another job that I can straight away start.

[healingcrystal]

Hi Tahlia, I know how you feel!

And it's understandable, I'm 17 also and have been working in fast food for almost a year. My advice to you, would be maybe try to cut down the number of shifts you're doing currently -- maybe two shifts per week, especially if you are in school (I personally found it hard to find a work/school/life balance).

If you're confused, you shouldn't be afraid to ask people for help! That's what managers/crew trainers are there for, so ask for assistance when you need it, and you'll become better and more independent in your job. Definitely don't give up yet. Try to stick it out for as long as you can, because it will increase your chances of getting into a new job you will enjoy when it's time.

For my first couple of months I couldn't even look customers in the eye, my voice would shake, and I would even mess up orders due to my anxiety -- but over time you realise people care more about the food than anything else.

At the moment I can't wait to get into a job that isn't as fast-paced as fast food, so just do the best that you can.

I believe in you!

[Tahlia1]

Hi Healing Crystal,

Thank you for your wise advice! I agree with what you have said. I have asked for two shifts a week as I will be in year 12 this year and fast food is not the best job. The manager said on the first day, were we work, isn't for everyone, our experience can be used in another store such as a clothing store. The manager just asks too much from us which is a shame.

Thanks so much for the belief! Hope you find a job that makes you happy too! All the best to you!

[BballJ]

Hi Tahlia1,

I understand what you're saying and that does sound so unprofessional, no one should be made to feel like that as that sounds like a form of bullying. Are you trying to find another job at all? Keep applying for casual jobs if you can and try and get out of there. Have you told your parents about what is happening?

My best,

Jay

[Tahlia1]

Hello,

Thanks for agreeing with me. It is very unprofessional and my mum now realises what happens. I have started to apply for more jobs but no company ever responds back :(. I definitely want a new job but I have a feeling it will take time because no one responds back. Do you have any ideas how I could find a new job?

Thanks Tahlia

[BballJ]

Hi Tahlia1,

I know looking for a job is tough, have you tried going into the place you are applying and speaking to the manager directly? Rather than just applying online. Maybe even trying a job counsellor to help you with looking?

My best,

Jay