Little OT: Job Interview Next Week!!

Thanks to Mary M's inspiration, I applied for a new job that will be a little of a stretch for me. 

They called me today and the HR person did an over-the-phone interview. She said the project manager would be calling me next week for a second interview. 

I may be jumping the gun a little bit, but I need some advice. I've been working for my current company for 18 1/2 years. So, if I take the job, I'm looking at losing a day/pay period of paid time off accrual. This means possibly going back to total newbie levels with the paid time off accrual.

Other than, obviously, asking for a higher accrual rate, if they won't go for that, what would you ask for?

I know I can always turn down a job offer, but I want to be able to negotiate (which I suck at). I'm really hating my current job.

Thanks.

WTG Patti!!! 

I'm not sure what line of work you're in and whether you're hourly/exempt, but negotiating a flexible work schedule is something that I would do.  I'll never be the type that does well 8-5.... I work an earlier shift and can work from home on Monday's.  There are a lot of surveys out there where employees are ranking flexible schedules / work/life benefits higher than salary these days.  I've turned down jobs that I knew wouldn't be flexible, even though they would have paid me a lot more.  :) 

Godo luck!!! 

No advice, it is out of my realm but a great big CONGRATULATIONS to you!!!! Every step forward is a victory! Can't wait to hear how it goes.

I am happy for you that you are geting another interview.. You deserve a good job with less stress...

I do not want to tell you what to do.. but just let me mention this.. you will eventually get all that time accrued back.. in the meantime you will not be working in a job you hate.. I am not sure that wanting to keep the days off with pay is worth it.. Look at the last line in your post.. "I'm really hating my current job."... I can see no way you should not look for something new.. Do not be afraid to start as a newbie.. at least you wont be miserable..

As far as negotiations that is up to you.. You have to decide after they make you an offer if it is something you can live with.. If not then you can try to negotiate.. but remember the job market is not what it was and there are people waiting in line that would take a job no matter what the terms and many companies know that.. so play it safe but dont take less than you deserve..

Good Luck to You.. I will be praying that if this is meant to be that it will all work out for you..

huggs..

I left a good job with lots of personal time off, and had to start that over at 47 (I tried negotiating it, but they were pretty strict).  After 7 years it equaled out.  I'd have rather taken less time and be in this work environment.  I found I needed more vacation time when I was stressed and unhappy with my job.

It's worth a try, if they make an offer, to try and get them to bump up the accrual.  Some employers do that.

I bet you will get an offer, Patti!   Good luck. 


I finished my second interview today and it went well.  Time will tell how I did!

Well, I have to say that the good vibes from all of you and my general glee at getting a phone interview so soon after applying kept me going this weekend.

My mom's health is getting iffy again. I have a bad feeling she'll be back in the hospital this evening. I think she's fluid overloaded.

I got into my first "insurance worthy" fender bender in my life yesterday.  I feel like such an idiot. I'm 40 years old and I had no idea what to do after the collision.

Then this morning I get a voice mail from the HR person saying they can't go above a salary 8 percent less than what I'm making now. With what I'd lose with my seniority here, that's a deal killer. I'm still open to negotiations, but she sounded pretty firm in my voice mail.

I'm unhappy at work, but I'm not desperate. I printed the job listing out and anonymously gave it to two people that I think could do the job well and love the pay raise they'd get.

Why am I good at finding jobs for other people? I found a job for one of my coworkers and she started it today. I guess I'm getting good job search kharma -- I just wi**** would pay out a little soon.

I'm working on being more confident. On Friday, I impressed someone important in a work meeting -- maybe I can parlay that into another position here in Shangri-La.

Thanks for the support folks, it really helped!!

Told you they'd offer it to you.

A couple of thoughts, Patti.   When you talk to them (obstensively to turn it down), mention that you hope they have great luck filling it and that you are passing it along to some folks that it would be promotional for them.  Then let them know you like the organization, and in case  something comes along that is a better fit for you, you'll keep your eyes open.   I once turned down a job that way, and they sent another manager in my direction with an opening I got!

Something will give.  You'll get a position in your company or another OR your job will get better.  Nothing at work ever ever stays the same for long.   All the best.