Losing a job can be a devastating experience, especially if it happens repeatedly. For many people, the question “Why can’t I keep a job?” can feel like an unanswerable mystery. The good news is that there are common reasons why people struggle to hold down a job, and there are practical strategies for overcoming these challenges.
In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons why people have a hard time keeping a job and provide actionable tips and recommendations for addressing these issues. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or have been struggling to keep a job for a while, this article will provide valuable insights and advice to help you move forward with confidence.
The Top Reasons Why People Can’t Keep A Job
- Poor Job Fit
One of the most common reasons why people struggle to keep a job is that the job simply isn’t a good fit for their skills, interests, or values. A study conducted by The Wall Street Journal showed that more than half of Americans are unhappy in their current job, and one of the top reasons cited was a lack of fit between the person and the job (WSJ, 2016).
- Lack of Skills or Experience
Another reason why people may struggle to keep a job is that they lack the necessary skills or experience for the job. According to a survey by CareerBuilder, 74% of employers say they have hired the wrong person for a position (CareerBuilder, 2017). This can be especially true for people who are just starting out in their careers or who are transitioning to a new field.
- Difficulty Working With Others
Interpersonal conflicts can also contribute to job loss. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that 60% of workplace conflicts are due to personality clashes (SHRM, 2021). When someone has a hard time working with others or has a personality clash with a boss or colleague, it can create tension and disrupt the workplace.
- Personal Issues
Personal problems such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem can also make it difficult to keep a job. These issues can affect a person’s performance, attendance, and overall ability to function in the workplace. Additionally, issues such as substance abuse or financial instability can create distractions and difficulties that interfere with work.
- External Factors
Sometimes, job loss can be due to external factors that are beyond the employee’s control. For example, economic downturns or industry changes can result in layoffs and downsizing. This can be especially challenging for people who work in fields that are particularly volatile or subject to rapid change.
Practical Tips and Strategies for Keeping Your Job
Now that we’ve identified some of the common reasons why people struggle to keep a job, let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for addressing these issues.
- Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the first steps in finding a job that is a good fit is to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Take stock of your skills, interests, and values, and consider how they align with different job opportunities. If you’re not sure where to start, consider taking a career assessment or talking to a career counselor.
- Improve Your Skills and Knowledge
If you lack the necessary skills or experience for the job, consider getting additional training or education. This can help you build your resume and increase your marketability. Look for online courses, workshops, or certificate programs that can help you develop the skills you need.
- Improve Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key to success in the workplace. If you’re having trouble working with others or communicating your ideas effectively, consider taking a course or seeking out a mentor who can help you develop your communication skills. According to a survey conducted by LinkedIn, communication skills were the top skill gap among employees in 2020 (LinkedIn, 2020).
- Build Your Self-Confidence
Low self-esteem can be a major barrier to success in the workplace. If you struggle with self-confidence, consider seeking out a therapist or counselor who can help you work through your issues. Additionally, look for ways to build your confidence in the workplace, such as taking on new challenges or seeking out positive feedback from colleagues.
- Find a Mentor or Support Network
Having a mentor or support network can be a valuable resource for anyone who is struggling to keep a job. Look for someone who can offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement as you navigate the challenges of the workplace. Consider joining a professional organization or networking group to expand your contacts and build relationships with other professionals in your field.
- Develop Resilience and Perseverance
Finally, it’s important to develop resilience and perseverance in the face of job loss or other setbacks. Remember that setbacks are a normal part of any career journey, and that with perseverance and determination, you can overcome them. Look for ways to stay motivated and focused on your goals, even when the going gets tough.
Several related additional studies
Here are a few related additional studies:
- A study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that job insecurity was a significant predictor of job dissatisfaction and turnover intentions (Zhang et al., 2019).
- A study published in the International Journal of Psychology found that high levels of emotional exhaustion were associated with higher rates of job turnover (De Jonge et al., 2010).
- A study published in the Journal of Vocational Behavior found that job crafting, or the process of redesigning one’s job to better fit their skills and interests, was positively related to job satisfaction and negatively related to turnover intentions (Wrzesniewski & Dutton, 2001).
- A study published in the International Journal of Human Resource Management found that perceived organizational support, or the degree to which employees feel supported by their organization, was negatively related to turnover intentions (Eisenberger et al., 2002).
- A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that job embeddedness, or the degree to which an employee feels connected to their job and organization, was negatively related to voluntary turnover (Mitchell et al., 2001).
These studies highlight the importance of factors such as job insecurity, emotional exhaustion, job crafting, organizational support, and job embeddedness in understanding why people may struggle to keep a job. By addressing these factors, employees can increase their chances of success and job retention.
Conclusion on Why Can’t You Keep A Job?
In conclusion, there are many reasons why people may struggle to keep a job, but there are also many practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, improving your skills and knowledge, building your communication skills and self-confidence, finding a mentor or support network, and developing resilience and perseverance, you can increase your chances of success in the workplace. Remember, job loss is not a reflection of your worth or value as a person, and with the right mindset and tools, you can bounce back and thrive in your career.
