I Just Got a Job Offer (OH NO!!!)

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So, I have been working at the same publishing company for just about four years now. I have never been unhappy with my job -- the work is reasonably interesting (most of what I do is fact-check elementary-school textbooks) and there are some nice perks to the workplace (my own office, casual dress, co-workers I like).

However, recently I started thinking about leaving, for three reasons:

1) The pay isn't great. I can get by, sure, but I'd like to make more at this period in my life.

2) I have been here for FOUR YEARS, and a simple change of scenery would be nice. (After four years of high school, and four years of college, something is tugging at me to move on!)

3) The company wants to promote me into a position that would entail more responsibility and more time commitment (I was told 50 hrs/wk would not be atypical) but no concomitant raise. I like to have a life outside of work, and I'm afraid that kind of time would really cut into my personal life.

And so, on a lark, I applied for a position at another publishing company. I interviewed yesterday, and to my surprise, they were ready to offer me the job right away. I wasn't prepared to make a decision, so I told them I'd need a day or two to think about it. They want an answer by the END OF TODAY.

Good things about potential new job:

1. A little more money. Not THAT much more, only 3% more. But still.

2. I like the product. Probably more so than the products I currently work on. (I'd say more but it's a fairly unique market, and even if I spoke in general terms, I'd probably give it away.)

3. Seems like there'd be less stress and bullshit to deal with overall, and my position wouldn't ask as much of me.

Bad things about potential new job:

1. The work seems like it'd be more tedious. At my current job, I specialize in fact-checking but also do a fair amount of editorial work when need be. I also work on a variety of projects for various clients, at various grade levels and subject matters. At the new job, there's really just one product, and the vast majority of what I'd be doing would be copy-editing.

2. The idea of doing less work for more money is obviously very attractive, but I have this nagging sense of guilt about taking a job that would essentially be stepping back and not really building on my experience from the last four years. Even though I've never wanted to "advance through the ranks" and make this job my CAREER, I have taken pride in the responsibilities I've been given here in a short period of time (I've been the leader for several fact-checking projects), and I'm not sure I like the idea of starting over, in a role that's less responsible (and from what I understand without much room for growth, either).

Essentially, my dilemma is that I don't want a job that is so challenging and stressful that it takes over my life, but I want a job that is at least challenging enough to keep me interested and satisfied with myself. My current job is usually the latter but has the potential to become the former. The new job seems like it will NEVER be the former, but I'm not sure it will be the latter, either.

HELP ME!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:46 (twenty-one years ago)

can I have it?

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:49 (twenty-one years ago)

Also worth noting: based on things the interviewer said and the fact that she was ready to offer me a job right away, I believe they are having a hard time filling this position. I guess that gives me the upper hand in some ways, and I'm wondering whether I should negotiate for more money. The thing is, I hate to think about jobs exclusively in those terms -- I don't want to become a person who works a job that's well-paying but soul-sucking -- but it could maybe make a difference.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:51 (twenty-one years ago)

Catty: are you willing to relocate to Chicago?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:51 (twenty-one years ago)

Well congrats dude & good luck on making a decision!

― PinXorchiXoR (Pinkpanther), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:52 (twenty-one years ago)

Ha ha, Catty has only just *escaped* Chicago...

― Kissing Time At The Pleasure Unit (kate), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:52 (twenty-one years ago)

take it, you will regret it if you don't

― kyle (akmonday), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:52 (twenty-one years ago)

Anyway, before all the unemployed ILXors jump on me, I know: it's a "good" problem to have.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:53 (twenty-one years ago)

Tough call. Also please consider what the culture/people are like at this new place.

Could you not use this offer to get a bit more leverage at your current position? I can't imagine being four years anywhere (good for you, really) but you should make that count for something without being an asshole.

Otherwise, you could always wait for a better offer from somewhere...

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:56 (twenty-one years ago)

the "..." indicates that this is a DANGEROUS game to play.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:57 (twenty-one years ago)

Also how long are the commutes and stuff like that?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:57 (twenty-one years ago)

Fucking hell, are you kidding?!? I'm DYING to get back to Chicago!

although I must ask -- are you in the suburbs? Because I'm not keen on the suburbs.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:58 (twenty-one years ago)

Hey J. Guess who. What about the commute? I'm not sure 3%'s enough for someone to jump unless you're really sick of where you're at--but if the commute's substantially easier, then that might make a difference. (By the way, did you, you know, no rush or anything, look at the questionnaire yet?)

― . . ., Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:58 (twenty-one years ago)

I have no idea what the culture is like. The woman I interviewed with seems nice.

Also, I learned of the job from someone who went to school with my brother and QUELLE COINCIDENCE also lurks on ILX and posts once in a great, great while. We'd be working in the same department. I've not yet met her, but she seems cool.

Did I mention that Sasha Frere-Jones came up in the interview?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:59 (twenty-one years ago)

John, I think maybe you should take it. Sure, it might not pay as much as you were hoping, but that's the STARTING salary, right? And your current salary took you four years to reach.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 14:59 (twenty-one years ago)

did you ask what the person who was in the position is doing now, and how long he/she was there? that might be a good indication.

also, what's your chance of career progression?

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:00 (twenty-one years ago)

Don't go back to Chicago! What will I do?

What will *English* do?!?!?

― Kissing Time At The Pleasure Unit (kate), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:01 (twenty-one years ago)

Commute: Currently I drive 25 mins. to work. For the new job, I'd have to take the el, and it'd be closer to 45-50 mins. However, I'm considering this difference negligible because I'm excited about the possibility of being able to read on the el.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:02 (twenty-one years ago)

He'll be your new best friend!

*ducks to avoid glassing*

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:02 (twenty-one years ago)

Working with people you actually LIKE is something to treasure (I would imagine, as it's never happened to me).

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:02 (twenty-one years ago)

Demetri: Hi! Sorry, I forgot about the questionnaire until M.P. reminded me this morning. Do you need it today? Can I send it to you late tonight?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:03 (twenty-one years ago)

My current job is 10 mins drive or 15/20 on the bus. My last job was about 40 mins including a walk and a BART ride, and yet I miss it! Reading in the morning and life/work separation=good things.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:04 (twenty-one years ago)

Compare the delis and coffee places in each neighbourhood.

That's what I'd do, anyway.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:04 (twenty-one years ago)

Taking the el is not a bonus, especially in winter, and you know how long winter lasts in Chicago.
I suppose it is better than driving on the Kennedy, or worse, the Stevenson, but if it doubles your commute time that may not be worth the small pay increase, especially if the job doesn't look like it'll be that much fun.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:06 (twenty-one years ago)

another question: you mentioned that you think taking this position would not be a building block on skills/experience. are there opportunities outside of the actual job description that you could (for lack of a better word) exploit to make it more interesting or build on your experience? developing a new product, or something?

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:06 (twenty-one years ago)

What about about BENEFITS?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:07 (twenty-one years ago)

SOMEONE IN LONDON PLEASE OFFER CATTY A JOB, IF ONLY TO KEEP PETER FROM TAKING UP RESIDENCE ON *MY* COUCH!!! PLEASE!!!!!! I'M BEGGING YOU!!!!!

― Kissing Time At The Pleasure Unit (kate), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:08 (twenty-one years ago)

Hmmm, I don't know!

I don't know about BENEFITS either!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:08 (twenty-one years ago)

Reading on the El can be difficult if you're on a standing-room-only run. But 25 mins. vs. 45 mins. is no big thing. Good luck on your decision!

xxxxxxpost
(It's no rush. Just as long as I get it by Sunday. I hope CMJ went well too!)

― . . ., Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:08 (twenty-one years ago)

(Yes, thanks!)

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:09 (twenty-one years ago)

The train is never crowded from the stop I get on at, so I'm almost assured I'll have a seat.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:10 (twenty-one years ago)

it's the standing on the platform in -15 windchill that puts me off. and the sadass attempts to salt the platforms.... there were so many times I thought I was just going to slip-slide right off the Wilson platform back in the day.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:11 (twenty-one years ago)

I believe they are having a hard time filling this position

That can be a red flag.

― j.lu (j.lu), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:13 (twenty-one years ago)

B-But - they have those little heated areas.

I love taking the el all the time (I could just drive) because driving here is HORRIBLE. Plus, I get to read, I always have a seat, and it encourages me to walk more. And you get that warm fuzzy feeling for using public transport instead of clogging up the roadways and polluting the world, etc etc etc.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:13 (twenty-one years ago)

you get that warm fuzzy feeling

you do???

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:13 (twenty-one years ago)

Jaymc, ask if they do COMMUTER CHECKS as part of their benefits - that would save you $$$$ on the El.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:14 (twenty-one years ago)

That can be a red flag.

Well, from what the interviewer told me, it's because people who have applied so far are unqualified. I had to take three separate tests -- spelling, proofreading, and world politics/geography knowledge (it's relevant to the position) -- and was one of the few candidates, apparently, to have passed all of them.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:18 (twenty-one years ago)

So is there any way you can use the job offer to have a serious word with your current employers? It sounds like you have a good relationship with them - they want to promote you, after all. Ask for more money and express any other worries you may have - all they can do is say no, and then you'll be able to leave with a handshake and move onto the new job.

Sounds kinda nice, though I can see why you're nervous and unsure. I hope you make the right decision!

p.s. remember that job satisfaction is worth FAR more than a small increase in wages - make sure that you think through the pay-off very carefully in this area. Because if you take the new job and enjoy it significantly less than the old then then you'll regret/resent it pretty quickly.

― Markelby (Mark C), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:19 (twenty-one years ago)

Jaymc, I wouldn't take the job... it sounds fishy.

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:20 (twenty-one years ago)

Jaymc, I wouldn't take the job... it sounds fishy. Here's the thing, you already have a job, so you should be extra picky.. if it doesn't seem absolutely dazzlin', then I say no go.

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:20 (twenty-one years ago)

i would definitely ask for more money.

― mark p (Mark P), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:20 (twenty-one years ago)

whoops, i said stuff, twice.

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:20 (twenty-one years ago)

Ask for more money at the new job or the old one?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:23 (twenty-one years ago)

And "fishy"??

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:23 (twenty-one years ago)

j-
negotiate for more money. tell them something along the lines of what better guarantees you as a long term employee is more money. get out of the job you have...you've been talking about moving on for a couple of years. it's only "good enough" for you. maybe the new job will be tedious--maybe it won't. but it won't in the beginning because it'll be new. besides, your current job felt that way & then things changed. you can always find ways to expand your position in order to vary the sorts of tasks you have. i think if you don't take it you will regret it. besides, if it is that bad, then find something else. you're not locked in to anything . . .

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:23 (twenty-one years ago)

B-But - they have those little heated areas.
Not enough of 'em!
Actually if I lived off Addison and worked downtown, the el would be just fine. Addison is the nicest stop overground.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:24 (twenty-one years ago)

Argh, SO CONFUSING.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:25 (twenty-one years ago)

My el stop is Bryn Mawr.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:25 (twenty-one years ago)

So did they say anything at all about paid holiday, medical, tuition reimbursement, commuter bonus, etc?
Because I'd sell my grandmother for a hefty holiday payout.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:26 (twenty-one years ago)

What you want is:

Old job: promotion, increase in range of responsibilities, mo money.
New job: mo money, transport expenses covered, guarantee of job progression.

How does that sound?

― Markelby (Mark C), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:26 (twenty-one years ago)

yeah get some more money out of the bitches. tell them you wont do it for a penny less than, i dunno, 90k. its probably not worth switching jobs for only a 3% raise unless its something you really really want to do. but dont listen to me - i havent had a real job ever.

― phil-two (phil-two), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:27 (twenty-one years ago)

How do you negotiate for more money? I've never done that before. Do you name a salary you'd like to receive? How much is too much? I suppose if I do that this afternoon, I could also ask about benefits.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:28 (twenty-one years ago)

mmmmmmmore benefits!

At least make them pay for your glasses. All publishing companies should pay for eye exams and glasses, and not do that stupid "pay-in" account thing that most places do.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:28 (twenty-one years ago)

I'm not actually worried about the transportation expenses. I'll be happy not to have to pay for gas.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:29 (twenty-one years ago)

tell them you wont do it for a penny less than, i dunno, 90k

HAHAHAHA!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:29 (twenty-one years ago)

Have a word with your boss and say you've been offered this other position, you're seriously considering it because it offers more money, you'd like to stay in your current position and here's what it would take. And if they don't meet it, you leave.
you could be doing the same thing to the other people, too. tell them you'll take the job if they can meet your list of demands (don't put it like that).

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:30 (twenty-one years ago)

what do you feel in yer gut?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:30 (twenty-one years ago)

jaymc, don't underestimate the value of four years seniority. that's a substantial investment. if i were to leave a company after four years it'd have to be because i hated the job, found a great career opportunity elsewhere, or was offered something noticably better paying.

so that said, is a 3% increase and a need for change enough to mitigate the potential downfalls of a new gig, especially when you seem relatively comfortable in your current job? what if you don't like the people or come to hate the work? is the fact that they were willing to offer you the job on day one a negative or a positive?

if you were coming from another reasonably short-term position, you'd probably have more room to be spontaneous, but this sounds too close to a lateral move to call. why not hedge your bets and ask for more money? if they're desperate to fill the position and they like you, they may very well concede, or at least meet you halfway.

(mad xposts)

― mark p (Mark P), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:31 (twenty-one years ago)

Take the new job. Change is good. I just gave my notice and start a new job on Nov 1st.

― andy, Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:31 (twenty-one years ago)

tell them you wont do it for a penny less than, i dunno, 90k

HAHAHAHA!

dont sell yourself short!!!

― phil-two (phil-two), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:32 (twenty-one years ago)

everyone else otm -> i'd also advise telling your current boss about the offer. nothing wrong with a bidding war.

― mark p (Mark P), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:33 (twenty-one years ago)

Thanks, mark p. That is helpful. (Everyone else, too!!)

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:34 (twenty-one years ago)

yeah please understand i am in no way saying you should stay, just that it can't hurt to ask your prospective employers to make the decision a little easier for you.

― mark p (Mark P), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:36 (twenty-one years ago)

Listen to Mark P!!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:36 (twenty-one years ago)

ask for a fancy new uniform with epaulets and stuff!

― s1ocki (slutsky), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:38 (twenty-one years ago)

Negotiating with your boss is going to be tricky though. They may not be able to meet your demands, so will you really leave? And if you don't, does that mean they think you never will and, er, exploit you accordingly?

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:40 (twenty-one years ago)

We've seen pictures of your workmates, they look like a rum bunch!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:43 (twenty-one years ago)

sometimes i think i have too many shirts with epaulets

― mark p (Mark P), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:44 (twenty-one years ago)

I'm not sure about telling my new boss about the offer. For one, the raise I just got a couple of months ago was more than the standard raise suggested by the parent company, and I was made to understand there was string-pulling that went on for me to get the raise I did. So I think the chances of them giving me even more money are slim. And then if I do decide to stay, then the fact that they know I was looking for other work makes it awkward.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:47 (twenty-one years ago)

Sorry: I mean my CURRENT boss.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:47 (twenty-one years ago)

I would take the new job, as I would not be prepared to work 50 hours per week.

― jel -- (jel), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:48 (twenty-one years ago)

Don't forget to ask for radish rosettes and truffles in your rider!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:48 (twenty-one years ago)

I didn't read the whole thread, but TAKE THE JOB. If this is the company you told me you were appying for a job with, it seems like the kind of place that would be cool to work for, plus the name recognition of the company on your resume would be a big plus in the future ("Oh, you worked for _____?").

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:50 (twenty-one years ago)

My inclination right now is to try to negotiate with the new company -- in terms of salary, and also to get some assurance that my work tasks won't be as circumscribed as they seem like they have the potential to be. I can maybe use the salary negotiation to buy some time, anyway.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:50 (twenty-one years ago)

Ask for 5% over your current salary. They should be able to offer you that if they really want to hire you at the new place--at the current one, if you want to stay and have more responsibility, don't mind the hours, but the lack of raise along with that is what's making you think of leaving, that sounds like a valid concern that your boss shouldn't be surprised to hear. It seems weird to me to give a promotion without offering more money.

― sgs (sgs), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:50 (twenty-one years ago)

AND THEN GET ME A JOB THERE, FOOL. I will be your personal assistant - "Yessir, I'll get those Luomo MP3s uploaded onto your iPod RIGHT AWAY."

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:51 (twenty-one years ago)

I am still waiting to hear about my next job (whatever it will be) and this thread is adding to my anxiety!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:53 (twenty-one years ago)

I applied for three jobs I want last week and haven't even gotten a call for an interview at any of them.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:54 (twenty-one years ago)

I think that if you ask the current boss for a raise or any other benefits, you should be prepared to fill your threat of leaving (if that's what you say it's all about).

Be careful about negotiating for higher pay at the new job. They may agree to start off paying you more but consequently not give you a raise for much longer or for a lot less when the time comes around.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:54 (twenty-one years ago)

that's true, 50 hours a week is bunkum. I'm currently working about 50 hours a week and its no fun at all. I feel like when I get home at night that it's only 10 minutes until I have to go back to the office.

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:55 (twenty-one years ago)

I just have to say that I drank too much coffee this morning and now I'm WAY TOO EXCITED about this whole situation. It's pretty weird.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:58 (twenty-one years ago)

Me too! I hope this all works out for Jaymc, he deserves it!!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:59 (twenty-one years ago)

*going to get MORE coffee OMG*

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 15:59 (twenty-one years ago)

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:00 (twenty-one years ago)

Jel -- the thing about the 50 hrs/wk is that I'm not sure that's even literal. I think it's just shorthand for "you'll be expected to put more time into this job than you are" -- but you know, a lot of times I'm warned that a project will require lots and lots of overtime, and then when it comes in, it's not as bad as it seemed. At the same time, it does suggest a willingness to devote myself to the company more than I think I'm comfortable with.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:00 (twenty-one years ago)

(That was to Mandee, too.)

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:01 (twenty-one years ago)

....

...

...update!

What's the timeframe on this sucker?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:08 (twenty-one years ago)

Take it to da house, Jaymc.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:08 (twenty-one years ago)

sorry...I have no idea what i meant by that.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:08 (twenty-one years ago)

Sorry, John, would the overtime be paid? That makes an enormous difference.

― Markelby (Mark C), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:09 (twenty-one years ago)

Wait. I know. Which job sounds more glamorous and will impress people?

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:11 (twenty-one years ago)

This new one sounds like it has a NAME attached to it.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:11 (twenty-one years ago)

BEWARE glamour jobs!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:12 (twenty-one years ago)

overtime isn't paid, EVER, IT SEEMS :( :( :(

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:12 (twenty-one years ago)

It is/was for me.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:12 (twenty-one years ago)

ADAM... BRAGGART!

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:14 (twenty-one years ago)

You didn't know that, mrs dude?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:15 (twenty-one years ago)

I knew you were a show off!

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:17 (twenty-one years ago)

I am NOT.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:21 (twenty-one years ago)

I think it would be paid overtime. All the overtime I work currently is paid. I'm not sure, though, since it would be the result of a new position. At the same time, I hate overtime so much that I'm usually willing to forego extra money for extra time.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:22 (twenty-one years ago)

Work/Life balance!

― jel -- (jel), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:23 (twenty-one years ago)

Here's a question: Can I talk to my current boss today about the details of my promotion (whether overtime would be paid, exactly how much responsibility it entails) without arousing suspicion?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:23 (twenty-one years ago)

Absolutely, yes.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:24 (twenty-one years ago)

Of course! You should get as much information as possible. Can you get sacked for looking for other jobs?

― jel -- (jel), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:28 (twenty-one years ago)

Without arousing suspicion, though?

I'm imagining the following scenario:

J: Hi, I wanted to talk to you about the promotion you wanted to give me.

Boss: Sure! I'm pretty busy, though -- do you want to set up a time to meet tomorrow?

J: Uh, I was kind of hoping we could talk today.

Boss: Well, it's not like it's going to take effect until early next year

J: Right. I just ... uh ... it's just important.

Boss: ?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:33 (twenty-one years ago)

OH yeah, I forgot you have to give a yes/no to the potential new company tonight, so that doesn't give your current company any time to come up with a rebuttle. So just go ahead and ask for the deets on the new position (deets=details).

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:34 (twenty-one years ago)

how do people get paid for overtime? are you paid hourly?

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:34 (twenty-one years ago)

J: I am very grateful for the offer, I just want to make sure this would be the right move for me.

B: YOU ARE FIRED.

Not going to happen.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:36 (twenty-one years ago)

how do people get paid for overtime? are you paid hourly?

Confusingly, I am salaried but I get double whatever I get PER hour whenever I do overtime. The accounting here is horrible (for my employers that is, GREAT for me).

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:37 (twenty-one years ago)

The insider's take:

Also worth noting: based on things the interviewer said and the fact that she was ready to offer me a job right away, I believe they are having a hard time filling this position.

Based on conversations with co-workers who had recommended experienced acquaintances who didn't even get interviews let alone offers (in addition to the pile of resumes I've spied on the boss's desk), I know they don't have a shortage of applicants--as for their qualifications, I just don't know. The reason they're moving quickly at the moment is probably because of the production schedule. So that, I don't think, should be a major concern. Turnover has been high lately, but not because the people were unhappy here, with one bizarre exception. They left after being here for several years to stay home with babies and freelance or to go back to school or for better paying jobs.

I want a job that is at least challenging enough to keep me interested and satisfied with myself. My current job is usually the latter but has the potential to become the former. The new job seems like it will NEVER be the former, but I'm not sure it will be the latter, either.

For me, some days it is, some days it isn't. There can be days of just proofreading, which are pretty dreadful. Most of my days are just copy-editing, which can be good when there's a long article about a topic of interest or terribly tedious when there are a string of minor updates/changes to be handled. How work is assigned is pretty mysterious much of the time. In your case, I imagine you'd be assigned to the project that you have previous experience working on (which would probably take you through feb/march? not exactly sure..). That project is my favorite and by my estimation would be interesting enough. Other things just aren't.

Hence the excessive amount of time spent web surfing.

money

Don't expect raises on a regular basis. While the base pay is decent, they've been too strapped to guarantee raises. There were raises last year, but not the year before. Overtime is sometimes available.

Two people from the department have moved up in the company in the two year's I've been here. They saw a big jump in their paychecks.

benefits

Medical, dental, 401k (No matching right now, which sucks, though that's supposed to be coming back soon...).

Two weeks of vacation, plus 4 floating holidays, plus like 7? company holidays.

Transit benefit (pre-tax transit passes, like most city employers).

Flexible schedule (core hours are like 9:30-4:00, so anyway you want to incorporate 8 hours [not including lunch] around that is up to you). Casual dress (whatever's comfortable).

culture

Lots of silent, intellectual lefties. Everyone is poorly socialized. Interdepartmental communication leaves something to be desired. Stress is *low* among the peons, most of whom are mid-20s to early 30s. (They just hired a fifty-something copy-editor who had been freelancing with your present employer for a little while. She's the odd one out of the six of us.) People complain, but generally take pride in their work and do a good job (despite wasting lots of time).

commute

Yeah, for you 45-50 is right. Seats shouldn't be a problem either way.

Intangibles

Company name recognition is fun. I tend to enjoy telling people where I work, and I think we produce good products. There's potential for learning just about anything, so it can be interesting if you stay engaged with what you're copy-editing. Sometimes we have big name contributors.

If you work here for a while (even a year) and move on, they gladly give you freelance stuff in the future.

Temporary added bonus

Obama's offices are in the building.

on the whole
It's a tough call. You'll never have to work a 50 hour week (though occasionally you'll have that option--but we can always turn down OT). Sometimes it will be very interesting, others times it just won't be at all.

I never hate my job, though it often bores me. It's a fine place to hide out for a couple of years. I wouldn't think of it as long-term, though lots of people stay here for many years. I'm sort of keeping my eyes open for something with more responsibility and equally interesting material, but I'm not in a hurry because things here are fine.

I don't think it's "fishy". It may be too dull to be a good move for you--it's hard to say for certain.

― mck (mck), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:43 (twenty-one years ago)

Obama!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:48 (twenty-one years ago)

HUH?

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:50 (twenty-one years ago)

john,
that seals it.
go ahead & go! go! go! for it!

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:51 (twenty-one years ago)

j-
wanna come over & watch keyes & obama on the tele tonight?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 16:51 (twenty-one years ago)

BACK FROM LUNCH!

STILL NOT RESOLVED!

But thank you SO much, mck. That is very, very helpful!!

...oops, I just got a tomato seed on the "S" on my keyboard...

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:09 (twenty-one years ago)

1. What do you think "seals it"?

2. I may go to a Harvest run-thru tonight. Not sure yet. But if not, yeah, debate.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:10 (twenty-one years ago)

(How was TAG, J?)

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:13 (twenty-one years ago)

Squeezed was good, thanks. Big crowd, which was awesome.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:15 (twenty-one years ago)

Take the job, and then find me one!

I'm tired of being unemployed.

― Jeff-PTTL (Jeff), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:20 (twenty-one years ago)

The progression:
Jaymc takes new job.
I take jaymc's old job.
Sarah takes my old job.
Jeff takes Sarah's old job.
Repeat every two years.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:22 (twenty-one years ago)

Nick, I'm so torn right now that that idea actually sounds reasonable to me.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:23 (twenty-one years ago)

(And I bet you could get a job here.)

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:24 (twenty-one years ago)

Reply to the email I sent you and send me the name of the company you work for now. Please.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:25 (twenty-one years ago)

Done.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:29 (twenty-one years ago)

Unfortunately, I don't think Sarah wants my job. But Jeff could jump up in the rotation and take my job instead.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:36 (twenty-one years ago)

It's good to be moving up in the world.

Seriously though, I almost always would op for a new job after 4 years. I quit my cushy job at a law firm after 4 years to move to chicago. I gave up a very light workload, 37.5 hour work weeks, and yearly raises, just because I needed a change badly.

Now I'm just looking for anything, coffee shop, to bar, to 9 to 5, to paid assassin, anything to get me out of the house.

― Jeff-PTTL (Jeff), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:40 (twenty-one years ago)

Yes, unemployment is really really dumb. I was suprisingly miserable for the last two months of my unemployment. HANG IN THERE, JEFF! How long have you been here in Chicago again?

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:41 (twenty-one years ago)

I was actually really looking foward to being unemployed for a while, and then all these fucking job offers ruined everything.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:43 (twenty-one years ago)

don't a lot temp jobs often end up in law firms? & often those firms are looking to hire . . . perhaps i am wrong on this. it happened to me twice.

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:43 (twenty-one years ago)

almost 3 months. I've had one interview, and it was actually afew days after I got here that I was woefully unprepared for, at coudal.com. Nice place, but I went in there totally uninspired, since I had just driven 2 days with all my stuff in a truck.

― Jeff-PTTL (Jeff), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:45 (twenty-one years ago)

It was three months before I got a job, and I've heard the same time frame from a number of other people who moved to Chicago, so you're due, dude.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:46 (twenty-one years ago)

A friend of mine just got a job in Chicago after 3 months as well, and he's a returning native. He's working for a book sales/publishing company. Will have to check which one.

― jocelyn (Jocelyn), Thursday, 21 October 2004 17:54 (twenty-one years ago)

I get bored with work SO easily. My max time at a job has been 2 years (twice). I can't imagine staying in one place any longer.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:01 (twenty-one years ago)

I've been worried about this whole idea of taking a step back or veering off a "career path" in a bigger-picture sort of way -- but someone just reminded me that 1) this new company looks good on a resume, and 2) staying here for another couple of years and just spinning my wheels doesn't.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:03 (twenty-one years ago)

j:
what seals it is that i felt m answered a lot of yer questions. and they were good answers. go for the new. go for the change of scenery.

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:06 (twenty-one years ago)

For the record, I said it would look good on your resume like 50 posts ago.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:10 (twenty-one years ago)

ZING!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:10 (twenty-one years ago)

It'll be tough giving up this office to myself, with the sunlight shining through the window like it is now.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:11 (twenty-one years ago)

And that guy with the crazy beard, you'll miss him too.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:12 (twenty-one years ago)

Don't let your EMO get in the way of your SUCCESS!

(photo of soaring eagle clutching tiny sweater-clad mouse in its talons)

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:12 (twenty-one years ago)

OTM

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:14 (twenty-one years ago)

His beard's not that crazy!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:14 (twenty-one years ago)

Be NOIZE and you will SUCCEED in EVERYTHING!

(photo of a wolf's eyes)

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:15 (twenty-one years ago)

j-aren't you the guy with the crazy beard?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:16 (twenty-one years ago)

All beards are crazy!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:16 (twenty-one years ago)

. . . because you can take you with you. [xpost]

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:16 (twenty-one years ago)

i think you should sell amway instead!

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:19 (twenty-one years ago)

avon calling!

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:22 (twenty-one years ago)

I think adam means P.L.?

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:23 (twenty-one years ago)

i'd totally love to sell avon. If I ever become a bored, rich housewife that's totally what I'm doing.

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:24 (twenty-one years ago)

My youngest sister decided to sell mary kay in college. She bought over $5000 worth of stuff so she could have some inventory. Then she threw a party of sorts at school and put fliers up - free makeovers to promote her product. Then the school sent her a nasty letter saying she couldn't sell to other students.

Two years later, my mom was trying to sell this makeup at a yard sale.

Eventually, since the sister was moving to Paris, she just let my other sister and I go through everything and take whatever we wanted and then we just gave her a little mula.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:29 (twenty-one years ago)

Sarah means "moolah," or money.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:31 (twenty-one years ago)

Just to remind people -- I would be leaving these folks behind (actually, the woman on the left quit two months ago, anyway):

http://www.image4u.org/patloboyko/P1010038.jpg

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:33 (twenty-one years ago)

Do you know how long they plan to stay at your current company?

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:35 (twenty-one years ago)

All of them have designs on leaving soon, actually!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:38 (twenty-one years ago)

But I don't know if that's just a "that's what they all say" kind of thing or not.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:38 (twenty-one years ago)

go already!

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:41 (twenty-one years ago)

OK. I guess I will call in a few mins. to make the salary negotiation.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:42 (twenty-one years ago)

Good luck!

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:45 (twenty-one years ago)

ARGH.

They're only willing to give a nickel an hour more, haha.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:50 (twenty-one years ago)

(more than what they originally offered)

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:50 (twenty-one years ago)

that was the result i got when i asked.

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:51 (twenty-one years ago)

so whatcha gonna do?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:51 (twenty-one years ago)

There seem to be a lot of reasons to take this job.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:51 (twenty-one years ago)

yup. (clearly i'm invested in helping you make a change)...would your new work be downtown? could we lunch together?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:54 (twenty-one years ago)

I JUST ACCEPTED THE NEW JOB

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:56 (twenty-one years ago)

Downtown yes. Jackson/Michigan.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:57 (twenty-one years ago)

WHEEEEEE! Congratulations! I'm now going to apply for your old job before you have a chance to formally resign, thus making things very uncomfortable for you! WHHEEEEEE!

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:57 (twenty-one years ago)

congratulations!

― Jeff-PTTL (Jeff), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:58 (twenty-one years ago)

YAY!

― jocelyn (Jocelyn), Thursday, 21 October 2004 18:59 (twenty-one years ago)

Thank you. I love ILX.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:00 (twenty-one years ago)

I was just going to offer some further pro/con analysis, but I see it's too late.

When do you start?

― mck (mck), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:03 (twenty-one years ago)

YAY JAYMC

― battlin' green eyeshades (Homosexual II), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:04 (twenty-one years ago)

I was just going to offer some further pro/con analysis, but I see it's too late.

Haha. Um. Hopefully, it was not going to be too many cons, was it?

When do you start?

Nov. 8, probably. I actually didn't talk to S.W. in person this time, I just left a message on her machine.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:06 (twenty-one years ago)

OK next question: I'm supposed to have dinner at my boss's house tomorrow!!! Obviously this means I submit my letter of resignation on Monday, but how awkward is this going to be!!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:07 (twenty-one years ago)

On the other hand, you won't really have to worry about your table manners tomorrow. Or hitting on his wife.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:09 (twenty-one years ago)

My boss is a woman. And her husband is like 75 years old!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:10 (twenty-one years ago)

Pedant.

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:11 (twenty-one years ago)

usually people are very cool about their employees spreading their wings........

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:12 (twenty-one years ago)

Get your eagle on.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:12 (twenty-one years ago)

So should you actually tell her that you are going to resign DURING the dinner, so you can enjoy your weekend? Or is this a terrible, terrible idea?

― n/a (Nick A.), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:13 (twenty-one years ago)

See, I wasn't planning on telling her anything, and then I would just place my letter of resignation in her mailbox on Monday. But then it makes me feel like I'm harboring a terrible secret if I have to be social with her tomorrow.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:16 (twenty-one years ago)

If you wait til Monday she'll think she did something terrible (or didn't do something wonderful) that precipitated the resignation.

― nickn (nickn), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:17 (twenty-one years ago)

"Your stroganoff was awful! I quit!"

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:19 (twenty-one years ago)

get drunk.
tell boss.
stumble home.

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:20 (twenty-one years ago)

puke on her couch so she'll be glad to be rid of you.......

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:20 (twenty-one years ago)

Congratulations!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:23 (twenty-one years ago)

thanks!

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:26 (twenty-one years ago)

Have fun at dinner.

Um. Hopefully, it was not going to be too many cons, was it?

No. Nothing particularly illuminating, really. It can be boring, and these crappy cubicles have nothing on an office with sun (or a door, for that matter--S.W. walks silently and appears in cubicles without warning). But that's the worst of it.

― mck (mck), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:30 (twenty-one years ago)

Plus the super-bonus of having me as a co-worker easily outweighs any cons.

― mck (mck), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:31 (twenty-one years ago)

Haha!

Yeah, I figured it was cubicle time again. I'm hoping it won't be too bad.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:32 (twenty-one years ago)

YAY, JOHN!

I wouldn't just hand in a letter. You've been with that company twice as long as I've ever lasted anywhere (meaning, I get too bored to stay longer than 2 years). They see you as a loyal employee. I think you owe it to your boss to tell her in person as you hand her the letter.

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:36 (twenty-one years ago)

you will be walking outside for your sunshine instead of getting it thru a window.........

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:37 (twenty-one years ago)

Yeah, you're probably right, Sarah.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:49 (twenty-one years ago)

congrats! when you get sick of it and decide to leave, let us all know so we can send in our CVs.
Or resumes, as the case may be.

― Catty (Catty), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:56 (twenty-one years ago)

Cubicles??? Is this some kind of SEX job?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:57 (twenty-one years ago)

congratulations jj!

― s1ocki (slutsky), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:57 (twenty-one years ago)

j, you'll be close to harold washington library--perhaps a slight advantage! stock up on things to read on the el (yes, a marked advantage). but, really, i think you made a good move based on all the info upthread and what i know about your PP situation. the very fact that they hired you so readily indicated you have transferable skills, so if it's really dire and boring, you can always look around elsewhere.

― robots in love (robotsinlove), Thursday, 21 October 2004 19:58 (twenty-one years ago)

S.W. just stopped me to say "thanks for encouraging John to apply".

― mck (mck), Thursday, 21 October 2004 20:07 (twenty-one years ago)

Nice.

― jaymc (jaymc), Thursday, 21 October 2004 20:10 (twenty-one years ago)

awwwwwwww!

― kelsey (kelstarry), Thursday, 21 October 2004 20:22 (twenty-one years ago)

I'm writing my resignation letter now! I have no idea how to do this!

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 01:11 (twenty-one years ago)

dear sirs,

i'm jammin' outta here.

luv,

jmc

― s1ocki (slutsky), Monday, 25 October 2004 01:16 (twenty-one years ago)

Ooh, I found a template online I can use. Boo-yah.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 01:39 (twenty-one years ago)

To whom it may concern,

Watch my fuckin' back!

Love, etc.

― the apex of nadirs (Rock Hardy), Monday, 25 October 2004 01:52 (twenty-one years ago)

don't use a template!

― s1ocki (slutsky), Monday, 25 October 2004 02:15 (twenty-one years ago)

I've made the template my own.

But ARGH!! Teh plan was for me to give my boss the resignation letter as soon as I got in. But the HR woman was bugging me to get a form filled out for the "sick day" I took last week, and I had to give that to my boss to sign, and then she started talking about all the projects we had coming up in the next few weeks, and I had to nod and be like, "oh totally," and then by the time I back upstairs from the HR office, my boss was in a meeting. ARGH! Let me fucking quit already!

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:32 (twenty-one years ago)

i think a "welcome to dumpsville, population: you" is in order here

― mark p (Mark P), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:35 (twenty-one years ago)

(ps. congrats jmc!)

― mark p (Mark P), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:35 (twenty-one years ago)

hooray, Jaymc! When do you start?

I am about to tell my unsuspecting (soon to be ex) employers that I am only coming in here for ONE more day! yay!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:38 (twenty-one years ago)

I start Nov. 8.

I am not looking forward to my boss's reaction, either. She has a flair for melodrama.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:39 (twenty-one years ago)

you start on my birthday! your new job is a scorpio, cool.

― mark p (Mark P), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:39 (twenty-one years ago)

Haha, I think this job was a Scorpio, too.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:40 (twenty-one years ago)

This job was also the incumbent in the four-year election cycle, and it totally got served.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:41 (twenty-one years ago)

Good luck again, john!

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:43 (twenty-one years ago)

Who's "john"?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:47 (twenty-one years ago)

How was dinner Friday? Awkward?

― jocelyn (Jocelyn), Monday, 25 October 2004 14:52 (twenty-one years ago)

Delicious?

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:00 (twenty-one years ago)

Dinner on Friday was actually fine (mmm, veggie lasagna). My boss took the day off, and she doesn't like to talk about work outside of the office, so there was really nothing about the conversation at dinner that would've made me uncomfortable.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:05 (twenty-one years ago)

SO I JUST WENT INTO HER OFFICE AND QUIT!

It went more smoothly than I thought it would. She said "oh no!" but I think she ultimately understood. (She also said she had her suspicions when I took a sick day the week after I was on vacation for 5 days.) She did, however, say that she wished I would've let her know beforehand, so that she might have been able to make me a counteroffer, to "make [my] decision more difficult." I told her that's what I was looking to avoid!

My stomach feels a lot better now. :)

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:09 (twenty-one years ago)

Fuck, I just went in to tell them I would be leaving tomorrow (I already gave notice about three-four weeks ago and am here on a "casual" arrangement) and they said they would still like another two weeks' notice! No way!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:24 (twenty-one years ago)

NO WAY!

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:26 (twenty-one years ago)

Can they do that?

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:26 (twenty-one years ago)

Had you set the date already, or was it more like, "I'll only be here for a few more weeks, 'kay?"

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:26 (twenty-one years ago)

They can't do that. You don't have to give ANY notice, you can leave whenever you want. What's stopping you from just not showing up? What are they going to do, fire you?

― n/a (Nick A.), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:28 (twenty-one years ago)

I guess ultimately it depends on whether you want to leave on "good terms" or not.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:29 (twenty-one years ago)

Had you set the date already, or was it more like, "I'll only be here for a few more weeks, 'kay?"

Well, I had an offer for a job starting mid-November so we agreed that I would stay on until then and possibly train my replacement, who starts next week. But now I got a much better offer and I already told my new employers that I can start Wednesday.

This is going to be UGLY!

(This job never had anything to do with "good terms", plus there is a girl here that has agreed to act as my "supervisor" if I ever need a reference)

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:34 (twenty-one years ago)

Oh right I forgot about the situation.

plus there is a girl here that has agreed to act as my "supervisor" if I ever need a reference

Haha.

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:36 (twenty-one years ago)

I DO want to get paid for the last week though.

These are dodgy people and I don't trust them.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:36 (twenty-one years ago)

SHALL I WALK OUT?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:44 (twenty-one years ago)

Do it.

― luna (luna.c), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:47 (twenty-one years ago)

it's VERY tempting...

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:48 (twenty-one years ago)

And then you'd have tomorrow off!

― luna (luna.c), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:48 (twenty-one years ago)

Yes, do it!

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:49 (twenty-one years ago)

(Uh-oh, the casual ease with which I just said that makes me wonder about everyone who said that to me upthread.)

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:50 (twenty-one years ago)

And then you'd have tomorrow off!

I know! :D

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:50 (twenty-one years ago)

Just go, Adam! Chiklis would.

― Leon Czolgosz (Nicole), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:51 (twenty-one years ago)

he would!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:52 (twenty-one years ago)

Chiklis on one shoulder, Larry David on the other...and they're in agreement!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 15:53 (twenty-one years ago)

Don't forget to dump your browser cache etc. first!

― the apex of nadirs (Rock Hardy), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:05 (twenty-one years ago)

Haha! I do that 2-3 times a day! How do I delete AIM logs?

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:07 (twenty-one years ago)

yay john!

― kelsey (kelstarry), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:43 (twenty-one years ago)

adam, when you walk out the door, will you say "I hate you and I hate your ASS FACE!" or will you be nice?

― jocelyn (Jocelyn), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:56 (twenty-one years ago)

errrr, I'm thinking about just sneaking off quietly!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:56 (twenty-one years ago)

sorry to disappoint you.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:57 (twenty-one years ago)

That's okay.

― jocelyn (Jocelyn), Monday, 25 October 2004 16:59 (twenty-one years ago)

Maybe you should say goodbye to some coworkers you liked?

― Sarah McLusky (coco), Monday, 25 October 2004 17:09 (twenty-one years ago)

I wonder if Adam has walked out yet.

― Leon Czolgosz (Nicole), Monday, 25 October 2004 17:09 (twenty-one years ago)

Maybe you should say goodbye to some coworkers you liked?

This is a 5 person office, they all suck! (except the poor girl who is staying on an being my ref).

Going at lunchtime I think.

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 17:13 (twenty-one years ago)

jump out of the window! (make sure there is a shrub below)

― s1ocki (slutsky), Monday, 25 October 2004 17:24 (twenty-one years ago)

maybe I'll order a LIMO and have it pull up right outside and then RUN into it.

or a CHORUS line break down the door and I'll join it and be carried away!

― adam. (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 17:31 (twenty-one years ago)

OMG Adam are you at home now??

― jaymc (jaymc), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:09 (twenty-one years ago)

...no, I'm still here. I'm just not coming back after today.

― Damn Yankees- High Enough (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:10 (twenty-one years ago)

i wonder if they will call you at home tomorrow wondering where you are

― kyle (akmonday), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:13 (twenty-one years ago)

I don't give a shit. I never answer my phone anyway.

― Damn Yankees- High Enough (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:13 (twenty-one years ago)

leave a steaming turd behind in your desk for them to discover later this week when the flies start to gather!

― kyle (akmonday), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:16 (twenty-one years ago)

grow up, Kyle.

― Damn Yankees- High Enough (nordicskilla), Monday, 25 October 2004 22:16 (twenty-one years ago)

Today's my last day at this job. What sort of wacky hijinx should I instigate?

― jaymc (jaymc), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:05 (twenty-one years ago)

It looks like your office has wackiness to spare. Perhaps you just be slightly TOO somber instead?

― adam... (nordicskilla), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:13 (twenty-one years ago)

leave a small piece of fish behind a radiator.

― beanz (beanz), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:14 (twenty-one years ago)

crosspost

― beanz (beanz), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:14 (twenty-one years ago)

In related news, the job I walked out of two weeks ago still had the good sense to pay me what they owed, which is good.

New job is great! Good luck J!

― adam... (nordicskilla), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:16 (twenty-one years ago)

Nice one adam.

I spent half the day talking to the Inland Revenue.

― beanz (beanz), Friday, 5 November 2004 16:19 (twenty-one years ago)

I miss the Inland Revenue!

― adam... (nordicskilla), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:02 (twenty-one years ago)

john,
are you celebrating tonight?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:09 (twenty-one years ago)

who is "john"?

― adam... (nordicskilla), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:09 (twenty-one years ago)

adam i will happily send you all my tax papers and you can sort it out for me

― beanz (beanz), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:30 (twenty-one years ago)

I know I'm terribly late in this

but high fives to everyone who's jazzed about public transit!

The el is swell!

― trigonalmayhem (trigonalmayhem), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:34 (twenty-one years ago)

Only if you do my taxes here for next April.

xpost

http://www.bart.gov/news/features/features20040824.asp

― adam... (nordicskilla), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:35 (twenty-one years ago)

I am going out after work to Moody's.

― jaymc (jaymc), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:35 (twenty-one years ago)

oh yeah?

― kelsey (kelstarry), Friday, 5 November 2004 17:48 (twenty-one years ago)

Yeah. Wanna come? It'll be mostly co-workers.

― jaymc (jaymc), Friday, 5 November 2004 19:59 (twenty-one years ago)

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