A little frightened...

**rachelMcK** · 08-15-2007, 12:25 PM

Ok, so I've been working at my current job since I moved to this city (about 3 years). I've come to be friends with my managers and the people I work with but lately things have been going down hill. The sales are terrible, we were in bankruptcy but some investors pulled us out but we will be again very soon (we're worse off now then we were in bankruptcy). My hours were cut back by half (40 to about 18 to 20 a week). But I'm still needed to do 8 hours a week in manager duties even though that title was dissolved due to budget cuts. I make minimum wage again. Once summer is over, I won't be making any money. My boss, who I really like, told me he would fill my hours with stockclerk hours so I can get a bit more time but still will be making minimum. I've been offered my other managers maternity leave in december but DH is adamant that I don't take it because I will just get screwed if I can find a better job (have to sign a contract) during that time. I agree with him.

Now that dilemma. I was called today about a job making about $4-5 more than I'm making now, full-time, but in a call-center, which is ok I guess but probably stressful (never worked in one). But I've done customer service most of my life (I was customer service manager where I am now).

I'm worried about taking this job though. I'm worried about putting my bosses in a bad position if I leave and after they are trying hard to accomadate me with hours and what not. I guess Im letting loyalty cloud my thinking.

So what would you do? I don't want to stay on a sinking ship and miss an oppurtunity but I also don't want to offend the people who have helped me so much in the last 3 years....please help, I need advice.

Thanks

**Dancing Lotus** · 08-15-2007, 12:28 PM

I stayed with a sinking ship and got screwed. IF I had to do it over again I would have moved on.

**frugalfarmwife** · 08-15-2007, 12:32 PM

Your first loyalty is to your husband and to yourself, your home and sanity.

I also would take the leap and go for the new job.

I work in a company where the payroll has been cut MAJORLY and I see those that need the hours struggling, if I had to count on the money to live on I'd be out, but my job is for me to get out of the house, keep physically fit and pay extra on the mortgage. I don't worry about the companies future, I'm lucky that I can take it or leave it.

kj

**baxjul** · 08-15-2007, 12:56 PM

I would go with the job offer! If the company you are with now goes out, they won't be worried about your situation.

**Darlene** · 08-15-2007, 01:23 PM

Take a chance on a new beginning Rachel! Your old job isn't offering much now and if the new job doesn't work out you should be able to find another one and wouldn't be out any pay since that job was only offering minimum.
It's sweet that you are worried about your current employers but I'm guessing they will miss you but understand that this change is in your best interest. You were loyal and rode out one rough time, no need to hang on until the bitter end.
Cheering you on!

**onencgirl** · 08-15-2007, 02:17 PM

Take the new job... no matter if you are friends where you are now. They will take care of themselves first. I was screwed once in a situation like you are in.

**amecoy75002** · 08-15-2007, 02:28 PM

You need to look out for number 1 - YOU. The days of unconditional loyalty to a boss/job are gone. Stay and get more stressed and depressed, or leave with your head held high and on your terms.

Good luck.

**jinx** · 08-15-2007, 02:35 PM

I would go for the new job. I agree "why stay with a sinking ship". Go and start over. Who knows you make like it better than the job you have now.

**Mom23boys** · 08-15-2007, 03:03 PM

I would jump overboard too! The old job doesn't seem to be offering anything to hold you there. I know change is hard, but you need to do what is best for you and your family.

**karone** · 08-15-2007, 06:52 PM

go with the new job.

**Tamerama** · 08-15-2007, 07:46 PM

Yep, I agree. You have to take care of you and your family first!!

**auntie2many** · 08-15-2007, 09:03 PM

I agree with others to take the new job as well. You, do need to voice your thankfulness to your managers though for trying there best to give you extra hours and perhaps bake them some cookies on your final day. You can always maintain a friendship with friends from your current job while working at a new job.

You also must listen you what your husband desires for you and your employment as you are a team and it sounds as if he is telling you to say your farewells and accept the new job.

You will do well in the new job, I am sure and if you do not like it, there will be plenty of places hiring for the holidays that you can work at until you find another position that meets your needs and desires.

auntie

**rachelMcK** · 08-16-2007, 09:02 AM

Ok, some new developments have occured. I've heard from a number of people that this company hires for 3 months then lays you off in order to avoid paying a higher wage and benefits. That upset me and for a while I didn't think I wanted to even go to the interview, but I've decided that I'm going to go still and I'm going to try to keep the other one I have now just in case. My bosses have already suggested that as they were with me yesterday when I was told about the three month deal. So I'm going to give it a go. I mean, all I can do is try, right?

Thanks!!

**Hardy1** · 08-17-2007, 06:14 AM

Well done! I'm sure you have made the right decision. Even if they did lay you off after 3 months (and that may not happen) you will have had 3 months of full time money and the call centre experience. Go for it!
W

**mommy4ever** · 08-17-2007, 04:37 PM

That may be a rumor as well, maybe it's truth, regardless you'll have a new experience to put on your resume, and still be able to help your bosses out, as they are willing to help you. What goes around comes around. Your bosses may take on other managerial positions elsewhere and be in a position to hire you again. So you didn't burn your bridges and will be getting a good paycheck.