how to reign gracefully from a job you just started
I started a new job almost two months ago. It's a good position, the manager really wanted me on staff, I love the mission, however, I'm terribly underpaid for my experience level (it's a public sector job, so I can't ask for more money than what is permitted). One reason I had taken the job was to get out of a toxic situation.
I started responding to job ads since the summer once I realized things at my last job weren't going to improve. I responded to one particular ad months ago and never heard back, so, of course, I figured it wasn't meant to be. Well, they call me a few days ago for an interview. It sounds promising and the pay would be terrific, as in I would have to be crazy to pass this up. I had earned this salary several years ago before going part-time for childcare, and now, if this works out, I can get my salary back to where it was. It would also be a great fit and I would most definitely plan on staying there for several years, at least.
Does anyone have advice on how to break this gracefully with my current employer? The main reason to leave really would be the salary. And due to the current economy, I don't think I'll be seeing any raises for another year or two. The salary I'll be offered at this new job is something that would take me years to reach if I stay at my current place. It's really an, "it's not you, it's me" sort of predicament. Do I even tell my current boss the truth-- i.e. this is what they're offering and I simply can't pass it up? Thanks!
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Jennifer Wehrend
76
Problem solver, critical thinker and go-getter!
12/02/20 at 9:55PM UTC
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Were you offered the job?
Virginia
23
11/24/20 at 7:44AM UTC
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I am in a similar situation and my advice is hold tight until you know you have the other role in the bag.
Pearl Wong
91
User Experience Designer
11/22/20 at 11:24PM UTC
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the public sector uses standard pay scales. these are not negotiable. simply be gracious and say that you were offered a dream job and move on. Telling the truth has no merit. Your boss isn't interested in your truth. you have wasted her time .
User deleted comment on 11/22/20 at 11:10PM UTC
Lexi Wilson
59
Social Media/Marketing Manager in California
11/22/20 at 6:02PM UTC
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This has happened to me in the last few career changes - I took a job that didn’t suit my strengths simply because the hours worked for me, but the pay and commute were terrible. When I was offered a better paying job that utilized my skills but was still a terrible commute, I took it after having been at the previous place for only two months. I was then at the second job for only 4-5 months before I was offered my dream job with better pay, utilizing my skills and my passion, and a 0.9 mile commute. I took it and immediately told my boss - she wasn’t thrilled, but she understood. Now I’ve been offered another position doing what I love somewhere else, but my current company takes such good care of me that I’m not going anywhere. Do what works best for you!
Anonymous
11/22/20 at 4:39PM UTC
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Get the job first. At this point, all you have is an interview.
If and when you're offered the job, don't give notice until your background check clears. Then, when you talk to your boss, you tell them, "An opportunity I couldn't refuse was presented to me and I've decided to take it. Thank you for the opportunity here; I've enjoyed my time here. My last day will be _____________."
Rosa Goes
147
11/22/20 at 4:07PM UTC
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With offer in hand, the last sentence from your post says it all..."tell the truth". It's a job you applied for prior to current job and they made you an offer you can't refuse. Good luck!
Audrey Kirsch
66
11/22/20 at 3:54PM UTC
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Public sector jobs often come with great health and retirement benefits. When a position opens up, they tend to promote from within. And, unless you make some horrible error, it’s hard to lose your job. Job security counts especially when you enjoy the work and those you work with. If the new job will provide all that with the addition of more money you can’t pass it up.
Anonymous
11/22/20 at 2:41PM UTC
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I didn't read in your post you were offered the job. If so, congratulations! Make sure you get the offer in writing before telling your current boss anything.
Stacey Edwards Nolen
26
11/22/20 at 2:21PM UTC
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I lost my job after nearly 23 years due to downsizing. Quickly found another in what would have been a lateral move for nearly the same pay but further away. I told that employer that I believe in long term employment and would not be looking elsewhere. However, I was recruited after only five weeks for a supervisory position with the former rate of pay and back to my previous travel time. While it was a very difficult conversation to have, I was honest and left after only eight weeks there. Now I’ve been at the “new job” four years and have more career growth than I ever could imagine. Take the job if it works for you and never look back.