Potential new job and raise yet humbling?

[elessar78]

Maybe humbling is not the right word...

But had a phone interview today for a new job and they gave me the salary range. 12K–2K more than what I'm making depending on what end of the spectrum they offer/I accept. It's a nice chunk on the high end. Until you adjust for changes: My health care contribution would go up by about $1,000 per year, $1,200 more for cable and internet per year (I get both for free right now and I don't need cable... just for argument's sake), and $1,800 more per year for gas (I currently pay a ridiculous $15 a week for gas!). Not to mention tripling my commute distance from 12 miles a day to 36! It may cost me another $1,000 a year if it affects what time I can pick up my kid from day care by an hour longer.

So essentially, not factoring in the day care expense and adjusting for the increased costs of taking the new job... I calculate only an increase of $135 more in each biweekly paycheck. Not exactly earth shattering.

But as long as I get to my break even point, I may take the job because I need a new one and this one is more promising in terms of advancement.

It's just kinda disappointing to see $10,000 potentially but realistically it's only $3500 more a year or $65 more a week.

Maybe humbling is the right word... life can be both full of optimism (which I am) but sobering at the same time. The only thing I complain about these days is that my boss makes me miserable, so what's the price on leaving that behind?

[minnie1928]

So, you'll make slightly more money to leave your existing miserable boss? I'd say that's a no brainer!

I understand how the raise sounds great, but when you factor all the changes in it leaves you disappointed. However, being happy at your job has many more benefits beyond financial.

[elessar78]

oh I know and I am excited about the opportunity, if I do get it. But you kinda had to put yourself in my place when I heard the figures. Like "Wow, that's a big increase!" then after doing the math, I was more down to earth.

[bjl584]

With break even type situations like that, I would say think more longterm about it.

Will this new job lead to potential promotions and even higher salary down the road?

Will staying at your current job lead to the same thing potentially, or are you at the ceiling?

Do you enjoy your current job, or do you need a change?

Answering those questions may help you with your decision.

Congrats on the offer either way!

[NolaP]

Congrats on the new job! And I totally agree with Brian. I recently changed jobs for longer hours and more money, and so far I am happy, but everyone's situation is different. I think the fact that you are considering taking another job in of itself is telling, because you have already begun to think about a new beginning. Change often equals growth, and new experiences.

Nola

[naomibatac]

For me, being happy and stress free are important. You can't buy joy. I also believe that when you enjoy your work, the more productive you become thus, may have a better income. Do you enjoy what you are doing currently? Is your job inspire you to achieve more? Hope this can guide you in making your decision. Congratulations on your job offer.

[MonkeyMama]

I missed this before, but just wanted to say that is why salary is not everything in a job offer. Salary, benefits, costs, etc. should certainly all be considered. The salary sounds nice, but that is not all there is to it.

When I took my current job in a lower-cost area my boss was all apologetic that he would have to give me a 10% pay cut. (I could CARE LESS! - was very expected). BUT, he then paid me overtime (unexpected) and deposited 10% of my salary into a retirement plan for me (profit sharing). Um, I got a HUGE raise. Overtime was about 10% and so I essentially got the same salary + a 10% contribution to retirement. I thought, "I should have moved sooner - I was obviously underpaid before." This employer has always compensated very well, so made up for even the cexpected cost of living pay cut. & I feel I better know the questions to ask the next time I look for a job.

[SeanH]

Could you ask for a 9/80 schedule or work from home some to decrease the drive?

[bennyhoff]

See if you can carpool (assuming you take the job). Try to take the bad (long drive) and make it good (time to sit and read or just relax).