I was filling out an application for a job that looks very interesting, and I know I could do well.

Hi Fairygodboss community! I am Pavithra Pandian, a passionate Python Full Stack Developer with a background in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE, 2023 pass-out). I have experience in web development, problem-solving, and content writing, and I enjoy crafting innovative solutions through code. I am currently seeking job opportunities in Python Full Stack Development or related fields. I am eager to contribute my skills to a dynamic team and continue growing in the tech industry. ? Skills: Python, Django, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, Full Stack Development ? Location: Open to opportunities in Bangalore, Chennai, or remote ? Looking for: Full-time roles in software development

My current role combines administrative and marketing duties, with marketing being my area of expertise and passion (15+ years). Despite verbal encouragement to take initiative, my manager micromanages my marketing efforts, undermines my content, and publicly disparages the department's performance, impacting my professional reputation. I'm torn between attempting to improve the situation at a company I like or seeking a role where my marketing skills are valued. Should I make one last effort to help this company improve its marketing, or is it time to take my skills to an organization that truly values what I bring to the table? Thank you.

What employers see about you is your responsibility. https://artoffindingwork.substack.com/p/job-seekers-consider-how-you-are

I’m in the hiring process for a job that would be better but also require taking a pay cut and moving a few states away. I’ve been with my current organization for almost 4 years and currently make a little less than $63k. I’ve been promoted twice (with pay increase) without having to compete or interview and consistently gotten 5% raises every year plus cost of living increases. It’s 100% in person with very limited flexibility outside of the typical 8-5. The work is very repetitive and can be frustrating at times, but it’s not stressful and we have a decent amount of downtime. I work in a very small department with a few people who I like on a personal level but don’t always like as co-workers/supervisors. A friend and former classmate referred me for an opening with their employer and I should be offered the position if I pass the 6 month long background investigation. This job is similar to what I do now but would require more training and has more responsibilities. From what I know, the work would be more interesting but there would also be a higher workload. It has much more flexibility for in-person work hours and the ability to work from home a few days per month. The department is also about twice as large and has a mix of “good” and “bad” coworkers based on what my friend has said. The real issue is the pay—starting at $55k and no guaranteed annual raises. The only real way to get a raise is by getting a promotion which, unlike my current job, is competitive and requires waiting for a vacancy (my friend just got her first promotion after 3.5 years). It would also require moving a few states away where the only person I’d know is the friend who referred me. Relocation expenses are not reimbursed and I would also have to sell my house after owning it for only 2 years (probably at a loss) and go back to renting (I can’t afford a house in the new location, at least not until I get a significant raise). Both are stable public sector jobs with good benefits. My friend is really encouraging me to take it as she’s heard me complain about my current job, and I do think it would be better in a lot of ways. I just don’t know if it’s worth the pay cut and having to move. I wouldn’t say I like my job, but it’s not as extreme of a situation as others. Would you take the new position?

We all have those moments in our careers where we feel stuck, uncertain, or torn between choices. But what if you had a guiding principle—a personal mantra—that kept you focused and aligned with your bigger goals? Think of some iconic brands—Nike: Just Do It. Apple: Think Different. They have powerful mantras that drive every decision. Now imagine applying that same clarity and confidence to your career. So, what would it be if you had to sum up YOUR career philosophy in just three to four words? ? Drop your career mantra in the comments! Let’s see what drives you. #CareerMantra #MindsetMatters #JobSearchTips #CareerGrowth #PersonalBranding https://www.linkedin.com/posts/melaniemitchellwexler_careermantra-mindsetmatters-jobsearchtips-activity-7308483719638528000-PHvh?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAE7zOABz83nZb53qdeC66Dyj4MTQ6Hhhqw

I’d love to get your thoughts on my situation. About a year ago, I launched my own independent contracting business. Unfortunately, I’m not optimistic that it will generate enough to sustain itself for much longer—maybe another 6 months to a year. In the meantime, I’ve been applying to jobs (mainly in the project management field), but I feel like my self-employment experience isn’t landing well on my resume. I’m a PMP with over 10 years of experience at large companies, but despite that, I’m struggling to get interviews. I’m also currently completing a one-year cloud certification program, which will wrap up this summer, and I could use that to position myself differently. However, I feel conflicted about downplaying my self-employment experience, especially since I worked so hard to build my business. Even though it didn’t succeed the way I hoped, it was still a huge learning experience. I’d really appreciate any advice on how to approach the job market moving forward, and how I can best position myself without feeling like I’m hiding my journey. Thanks so much, and good luck to everyone on their search as well!