At a Job Crossroads

LegacyUser

Hi all

this is actually a good problem...

I have recently started a new role in a field I really like and am on a good salary for my age (I'm 30 on circa 50k to go up to 54k soon). The new company is exactly what I wanted for so long and I love the people I work with. I get lots of flexibility, loads of leave, close to my house, very understanding manager, no huge pressure etc. I am on a year contract which might be extended for another 2 years depending on funding. I left a permanent role for this and am delighted with the decision. Last job wasn't for me nor was the field it was linked to. The new job is right by my house. I love it so far but I just don't know if there will be a future here..? If it gets extended for 2+ years I doubt I would be needed after as my role is supporting a project that will end in 2020. It's not clear and too soon to be asking line manager what's going to happen after the contract or if I could stay on in some capacity after 2020.

After 4 months in new role I get a call from another company that is linked to the last job's field. The company is offering me a 2 year contract and the salary is significantly bigger (starting at 60k going up to 80k after a few years). It would mean that I'd be set up for life. I am not as interested or as knowledgable about what they are doing, the field doesn't really excite me (why I left last role) and I would have less freedom. It is also very very professional (suit and that craic - not for me). I asked would there be permanency and they said yes more than likely after the fixed term contract which is beneficial compared to last job. With this job I would have significant traveling and would have to commute a little bit more.

I am not too eager to get on the property ladder to be honest so permanency isn't a huge issue for me right now. I'm not money hungry but I would like to have more money to save... but the current role is great and good for me mentally but just not sure what to do.

What does everyone think? A good problem to have, I know!

Lux23

I would stay where you are if you're happy.

Wesser

I think you already know the answer.

Ursus Horribilis

I think you should stay. There's little worse than being stuck in a job you hate (I know - I've been there!). This other job isn't the only one in the world and you shouldn't take it simply because it's there and there's more money involved. Bide your time and keep your eye out for other jobs. You might yet find one that'll suit you better.

December2012

Stay where you are. You love the rest of your life and if the only reason is money, then that's no reason at all for a person in your situation. you never know what opportunities are going to present themselves in 2020. Enjoy your time now, something good will come then too.

heretothere

Definitely stay! I was on nearly pretty much double my salary in my last job (a secondment) but I hated it! Hated the commute/ the field/ the I am a cog in a massive wheel feeling. I am back in my main office now on half the money and couldn't be happier!
I don't know where you are living but €50k a year is a lot imo and you can probably be living pretty nicely off of it. Don't worry about 2020 for all you know you might have totally different goals in 3 years time. I know 3 years doesn't sound too long but think about where you were 3 years ago.

LegacyUser

Hi all

I decided to do it and turn it down. I feel actually a bit liberated! There is more to life than money, that's for sure (says the guy with 580 euro to his name lol!) but thanks a mil to all - i am happy that i said no.

Should I tell new manager that I was approached? I am not in the private sector so there would be no point in approaching them in fairness?

heretothere

Good stuff, you spend a lot of time at work and it sounded like you would be miserable in the other job. I know most people don't adore their job but you have to at least like it a little!!
I wouldn't say it to you manager, if they cannot give you a pay rise I don't really see what you would gain from telling them.