“My dilemma is, I was offered a temp contract role for 6 months in a more professional, larger firm. I would have better opportunities to network and earn and possibly get my foot in the door but its uncertain.”
Our Elder says: “Have you been able to talk to present or past employees of that firm that can speak about this company, their satisfaction, and their heartfelt beliefs on how it may lead to betterment?”
Dear EWC,
I have been out of work for almost 3 years. I recently moved to Raleigh,NC I was making 6 figures. The job was so terrible.
When hired they knew I did compliance and QA not Audit. I wa assertive and tried to learn did everything, but finally left. In all honesty, I should have posted out to a different role with the company. Fast forward ive worked temp roles making very minimal pay. Finally a job making a bit more but still have of my normal pay I took it.
I’m married my husband has been trying to launch a buisness for some years so employer insurance was another motivation. Well ive been in the job almost 5 months and the growth and opportunities that were told to me I see are not the case. The work environment is a bit archaic, the people and culture are great, however they have never worked anywhere else. It’s a small company.
My dilemma is, I was offered a temp contract role for 6 months in a more professional, larger firm. I would have better opportunities to network and earn and possibly get my foot in the door but its uncertain. Should I take the higher temp role or stay with stability. Also I need to repair credit etc and my husband doesn’t have consistent income.
Wisdom Keeper Paul-Dad Response:
Thank you for your inquiry, Vulnavia. I can’t tell you which job decision you should make, but I will list some factors that I believe may be helpful in your decision.
I’m sorry that the job you are in has been disappointing. Since you have had recent unemployment, and have only been there a few months, I would generally advise that you stay there to get at least one year of steady employment before you look around. Gaps in employment and moving around to lots of different jobs can be viewed negatively when seeking future jobs. My “general advice” is not my final advice, just a point of reference that works in most employment situations.
Vulnavia, are you positive there are not paths to advancement and more income at your current company? I hope you have thoroughly explored that possibility with co-workers, Supervisors, and HR (if that function exists in your company).
How sure are you that taking the 6 month contract job will be an opportunity for networking, learning, and improved pay? When you interviewed for the job, did they make convincing statements about chances for advancement? Did they give specific examples of persons who started with contracts and moved to permanent roles? Have you been able to talk to present or past employees of that firm that can speak about this company, their satisfaction, and their heartfelt beliefs on how it may lead to betterment? Does this company only hire contract workers? If no, might you persuade them to offer you full time, or for more than a 6 month contract?
Vulnavia, keep a little skepticism, all jobs look good when you’re speaking to the hiring persons. The disappointing job that you are currently in likely sounded great before you began there. Since you already have some gaps, making a move to just a 6 month contract, might be risky. I hope you can be very sure that it is the right move before you agree to the contract acceptance. Also, as mentioned, consider asking if the contract period could be increased, or if full time employment may be offered. They won’t blame you for asking, and if the answer is no, you are no worse off.
I wish you luck, Vulnavia, and thank you for visiting our online group. I hope we will hear more from you.
Best Regards,
Paul-Dad
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