Need Advice on Job Offer Decision
I’ve been on a job hunt for the past eight months, and I’m excited to share that I’ve finally received an offer!
I’m considering transitioning from my role as Team Lead at an agency to an Internal Corporate Recruiter and Training Specialist position.
To give you some context, I’ve spent 3.5 years at my current agency, where I’ve achieved a lot and gained significant trust from the leadership team. I’ve enjoyed numerous benefits and opportunities due to this trust. Unfortunately, over the past year, our niche agency has faced considerable challenges, including a 50% reduction in headcount—from 100 employees down to 50. We’ve lost several key players, including our CEO, and after some restructuring, our new leadership has dramatically shifted our business strategy, resulting in nearly a one-third drop in our monthly revenue. I’m no longer the last person on my team; most of my close colleagues have moved on. This situation has prompted my job search. On the upside, I’m currently earning a solid base salary of $70K plus a 25% team bonus (which we haven’t achieved in the past year) and enjoy a generous 24 days of paid time off while working in a hybrid model.
The job offer I’ve received is for a Corporate Recruiter and Training Specialist at a small tech company. I would be the founding member of their internal recruitment department, responsible for establishing the recruitment processes and training programs. It’s a fantastic opportunity to move into an internal role and step into HR. The offer includes a salary of $75K with a guaranteed $10K bonus, but it comes with only 10 days of PTO (which is non-negotiable) and requires 80% in-office work.
While I feel a strong urge to accept the offer, I am concerned about the work-life balance and the limited vacation time. I’m trying to remember the reasons that motivated my job search in the first place and why this move seems like a strategic step away from agency life. Ultimately, I’m feeling apprehensive about making this change.
I’d appreciate any advice or insights you might have!
Thank you!
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a challenging but potentially transformative situation. Here are some things to consider as you weigh your options:
Evaluate Your Current Situation: You’ve detailed the challenges your current agency is facing, including significant reductions in headcount and revenue, a major shift in leadership, and a loss of trust in the company’s direction. If the current environment is toxic or uncertain, taking the new offer could be a way to escape a downward trajectory.
Consider Long-Term Career Goals: Transitioning to a Corporate Recruiter and Training Specialist role in a tech company might align better with your long-term career goals, especially if you’re looking to move into HR. This could provide you with valuable experience and set the foundation for future career advancements.
Work-Life Balance: This is a significant factor. The new role comes with fewer vacation days and an 80% in-office requirement, which could impact your work-life balance negatively compared to your current hybrid setup. Think about how much this matters to you and if you can negotiate for more PTO or some level of flexibility regarding remote work.
Assess the New Opportunity: Since you mentioned that the new company is high-performing and the people seem great, that’s an important aspect. A positive work environment can greatly enhance your job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Fear of Change: Change is always intimidating, but it’s important to reflect on whether your fear is rooted in a desire for comfort or a genuine concern about the new role. Ask yourself what specific aspects of the new position or company make you anxious and consider if those concerns are valid or if they’re fear of the unknown.
Talk to Others: If possible, reach out to someone who has made a similar transition or who works at the new company. Their insights could provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare.
Decision-Making Framework: Consider creating a pros and cons list for both your current job and the offer. This can help clarify your thoughts and provide a visual representation of the trade-offs.
Ultimately, trust your instincts, weigh all the factors carefully, and remember that it’s okay to take risks for your career development. Change can be scary, but it often leads to growth and new opportunities. Good luck!