Should I look for another job?

I'm feeling really unappreciated at my job and feel like I should be getting paid more since I basically run my boss' business. Other than that, it's very laid-back, and I am on top of everything I am responsible for. But I feel like maybe I'm sticking it out because I get great benefits and aquire a lot of time off that I save for the holidays. My boss has never acknowledged administrative assistant's week, I have ONE email from him in the whole 2 years I've been here stating how lucky he is to have me, and he gave me a christmas present last year that his wife most likely went out and bought- not him. He is extremely clueless, doesn't read his emails all the way through, asks me to handle confidential compliance stuff I should not be seeing, unorganized to a point where I end up sending and retracting many emails to people in our office- making me look bad, jumps to conclusions, and even once forwarded me an email from a friend of his

who couldn't figure out the spell by name directory. The email read, "I can't get through to you on the directory- there is no Z button on my phone." My boss actually forwarded that to me asking me to "fix" it, when clearly, we all know the Z BUTTON is number 9 on the phone! It's just ridiculous stuff like this that makes me upset. I'm sure there are more unbearable and clueless bosses out there, but is this worth sticking out? I love my colleagues and my boss and generally get along, but when he is clueless, it frustrates me so much, if you couldn't tell.

If you've got great benefits and lots of time off, stick with it! I know a lot of people who don't get that. Appreciation is great, but benefits and vacation time are even more important and they're hard to come by.

Strictly speaking, it wouldn't hurt your present employment to look for another job--but it sounds like you've got things pretty good as it is, so don't go jumping ship until you know you've got an equally good position waiting for you somewhere else!

I wouldn't quit just yet. From your description, it seems like you have a pretty cool job. I have often felt unappreciated on jobs, but don't cut off your nose to spite your face. You have great benefits, and your boss obviously trusts and respects you. Try not to get angry over small things and count your blessings.

This is why he employs you, he needs you and you seem capable.

It never hurts to see what else is out there.

I had a boss just like yours. Had me working and doing his stuff while he kicked back in the chair. I worked every weekend for him so he can have it off but he never appreciated nothing i did. He consistenly made my life a living hell. I would try to find another job (but dont quit till you do) and make sure this next job appreciates what you do. I would explain to the next job-that it would be nice to get a thank you from time to time. We all need someone to say thanks for doing a terrific job. All the people under me I use to tell them daily and weekly how good they were doing. Even to sweeping the floor-i told the man-"God that looks great-the floor looks amazing--we could eat off of it.". Even if it didnt look all the well i still complemented him and others for what they did.

Be very glad you have a job! Many people don't in this awkward economic situation.

Honestly, do you really think you could find a job where you are not annoyed by a co-worker? There are going to be positives and negatives to any job. You may end up more unhappy at your new job then your current.

Yes, your boss sounds like a goof, but it's your job to make him look good... not the other way around.

Appreciate what you have. Focus on the positives.