floatingleaf | WTF shall I do?????.......

OK, so I am in a real conundrum right now. I just had a call back from the company that interviewed me nearly two weeks ago, about that permanent position that sounded so good. Less than 7 miles from home, flexible hours, paid vacations, medical benefits available from day one etc. And they want me. So what's the catch?... The hourly rate is $10.50, and not likely to ever go higher. I did tell them initially that my minimum was $11.00, and they are aware of that, but they still want me to consider the offer, and they say they are giving me the highest rate available for the position. But that's not all. Right before that (last Friday), I had a call from a temp agency offering a short term assignment that pays $11.65. The details are supposed to be finalized TODAY, but I already know that they are taking me without an interview and want me to start ASAP. It's supposed to last at least a month - possibly longer. I know that's nothing compared to a permanent position... but I really didn't expect to be making less than $11.00 per hour. I can totally live on that - I am single with no dependants - but still... I just don't know. If I accept the offer, and if the job is OK, I might be stuck at this level of pay until I retire, lol. And of course I have to make the decision today - within the next few hours. Just so everybody knows where they stand. And it's too early in the day to call any of my friends for advice - they're all at work. So I am making this desperate post...;)

As if all of that wasn't enough, I am supposed to meet a very special LJ-friend this week, one I had never met before and might never meet again (I will not say more out of concern for her privacy), and I have just found out that the only day she will have truly free to hang out with me is Thursday. Thursday! And I still don't know when I am starting my new job (possibly tomorrow! and very possibly sooner than Thursday, at any rate). Or WHICH ONE, for that matter. AAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!....... I think I am going to shoot myself. HELP!!!..... LOLOLOL *runs around screaming*

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Don't ever discount the value of paid vacation and medical benefits. They can increase your overall compensation package by 30-some%. Not to mention the security that comes from non-contract work...

good luck, whichever you decide!

Thanks for replying so soon. You basically confirmed what I was thinking to myself. I just couldn't say no... it seemed stupid. I had a distinct feeling I would regret it later... *sigh*

Plus no company is going to keep you at your starting salary forever, if you do good work. You'd get increases eventually. And security and benefits are much more valuable in the long run than a dollar an hour more in a short term temp job.

I think I know who you're trying to meet and I *wish* there was some way I could get there too - but it would have to be the weekend, there's no way I could get there Thursday.

You are right - as usual.;)

Well, she'll still be here through the weekend - just busy during the days. And since for me it's a two-hour drive to get downtown, where she'll be staying, I'd much rather choose a day when she's free, so we can spend more time together... and luckily I can do just that.:)

My Leaf, my Sweet Leaf,
you know who I am even if this silly computer doesn' let me register (!!).

I'm sorry I've only seen this now, or I would have replied sooner with the same advice the other gilrs have given you. I know, a bit less an hour makes a difference at the end of the month, but a job for only a month doesn't really sound like a solution to your job search, does it??
It is hard to accept that you are going slightly down the salary scale, rather than up, but it is not necessarily a loss from all points of view. Think how horrible your previous work place was in terms of pressure and working pace, if this place is even a little bit more human, you have already gained a lot more than the mere money difference. The fact that it is around the corner from home is an extra bonus. It sounds as if they are offering other things that are rather good as well, such as the flexible hours (which I think are rather important for you) and the paid vacations and medical stuff.
I know, it sounds like you will be stuck to a position that is inferior to what you deserve, but remember that you just do not know for how long you will stay in this job. Something better may come when you do not expect it or you might decide to look for something else, in the meantime though you will have something that is really reliable, that will make you feel secure for as long as you like and will give you that peace of mind of not having to go for interviews all over again in a month's time.

For your meeting, it's certainly easier when you don't work, because you can arrange things just the way you want and spend all your time with this person, but I'm absolutely sure, SURE, that your time with her will be beautiful and magic anyway. It is something special and it will remain special even if you have to work before or after it ;) think that you'll meet her as a working woman, with a decision made for your future, rather than as wee, cute job-seeker who doesn't know what's gonna happen in her life LOL

I'm leaving this computer that is driving me mad (can't even type properly on it lol) and I'll keep in touch to see how things are going.

A big, tight hug, My Leaf,
xxxxxxxxxSlesia

My dear, dear Slesia,

Thank you so much for such a comprehensive reply.;) I've been wondering about your disappearance over the last few days. PhD giving you a hard time again? ;P

Yes, all you have said are valid arguments in favor of taking the job - but in truth, it's the flexible hours that did it for me.:) As well as being tired of browsing the ads/returning the calls/interviewing etc. If I don't like the job after all, I can always go back to that - but for now, I wouldn't mind a break, lol.

As for the meeting with the Very Special Person, I am a lucky girl, because my starting date for the new job is November 27th. Which means I still have almost two weeks. I feel like I'm on vacation, yay!... And I can spend most of Thursday afternoon & evening in extremely inspiring company.;) (if we manage to find and recognize each other, that is :P)

Anyway - take good care of yourself, and I hope to hear from you soon!...
Tight & squishy hugs,
Your Leaf ;)

I only saw this now,but I hope you have made the best decision for you.I agree with all the ladies before me.Some benefits, plus flexible hours and not too long from home,may add some interest to the job,even if it didn't paid what you want.If they like your work ,they can add a little more to your payment.
Good luck,my friend.
Hugs,
Liri

Thank you for the good wishes. I did just like all you ladies advised.:) I hope it's for the best.

WTF shall I do?????.......

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