Life's frustrating decisions (aka more about career options)

[Guest]

This is sort of a "what would you do?" post, yet sort of not, since obviously I ultimately have to make a decision ... by next Wednesday. This is more of a "this is what I have to think about, what's your take ... so I can better think outside the box" post....

That written, I have a great working environment in terms of people, but I hate the call center job I have right now. So, I've been searchin' quite a bit for a new job. This morning, one of my queries "paid off" in terms of a 10amish call for an interview today (Saturday, 03/18/2006) at noon. I jumped on it. The person with whom I interviewed told me I'm their # 1 choice, after interviews all of this past week. The job is a "Correspondence Coordinator" for a realty office that specializes in Short Sales/Foreclosures.


So, what's the problem? Several.

1) Only $10,000 yearly guaranteed. The rest is commission-based on what the team makes. I don't have to sell anything.

2) No health benefits. They are looking into offering some type of package, but they don't right now. The person that I was given to contact for health coverage told me that he is 99% sure he can get me covered, despite the pre-existing health condition. I should find out Tuesday night whether that 99% is a 100%.

3) No savings plan. Not all that bad, since I'd be good at saving some and putting into an IRA, but I wouldn't have the benefit of any company match.


On the flip side (aka "ups") ...

1) From the job description given to me, nothing seems all that redundant. Fresh opportunities each day for variety. Most of my duties, however, are "office based" (such as answering phones, working with files, etc.), but I do have the opportunity for some regional travel, delivering documentations, going to properties to take pictures, etc.

2) Relaxed office. The person with whom I interviewed today told me that they sometimes will sit and talk for an hour or so to just take a break. Sounds good to me.

3) No "Sick Day" or "Vacation" bank. While that might sound bad at first, the person with whom I interviewed told me that they are pretty understanding about time off, etc. She even told me that the vacations I have planned already would most-likely be approved.

4) Radio show sponsorship. The interviewer told me that even if I don't take the job, they'd be willing to discuss the possibility of sponsoring a part of my potential radio show on the Elgin radio station.


*sighs*


I've been told that I'd make a great salesperson ... and maybe this would be the best way to "test that theory". But, that'd be at the cost of health coverage. But, part of "health coverage" would be a less-stressful environment, which it sounds this might be....

Aye. I've no idea what I'm going to decide. In some ways, the positives outweight the negatives; while, in other ways, the negatives overtake the positives. Guess we'll see .



Cort, "Mr MC" / "Mr Road Trip", 32swm/pig valve/pacemaker
MC:family.IL.guide.future = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/
chdQB = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/quilt.html
"You better not try to stand in my way" ... J Paycheck ... 'Take This Job & Shove It'

 

[gijanet]

Well, your momma hen is jumping in here as usual..........

Well, your momma hen is jumping in here as usual..........

and just reminding you that no one can make this decision for you. You have to go with your gut. Having said that, you know I always offer my three cents.

First, if the health insurance is a no go, then the job is a no go. Get the insurance coverage first..........in writing.

Second, what did the "team" make last year? Based on last year's sales, what would your take be? That should give you some idea of what to expect income wise.

Third, check them out with the BBB and the Chamber of Commerce and anyone else you can think of. If they have had numerous complaints, then that is not where you need to be.

Fourth, savings plan.........most small companies don't offer one, sad to say. But it is not the end of the world, if you are making enough money to invest on your own. While 6% of my salary goes to TRS, and that will hopefully be matched by somebody somewhere at some point in time, I also put 200 away each month in a tax sheltered annuity that no one matches. It adds up over time............if you can leave it alone. Unfortunately, with Miss K., I have not always been able to leave mine untouched.

Fifth, they do pay into social security, I presume. You definitely can't retire on that alone anymore, but it helps.

Sixth, no vacation or sick days.............bummer. But flexibility is a plus.

Seventh, and this is a big plus. This might open the door to some other great things. Ya might want to get your real estate license later on. Foreclosures are booming down here. I know because we have been tracking them closely..........trying to buy one. Every time we find one we like at a bargain price, the rug has already been pulled out beneath us and a contract is already pending on it..........like just last month ...........ARGH!!!! Anyway, Don has gone back to school since he retired from Uncle Sam last year and is working on his real estate license. Unfortunately, his GI bill is only good on accredited college courses, so he is having to take the scenic route, and it will probably be two years before he sees his license through the local community college.

As usual, you know my heart is with yours, and I hope you are able to make a decision that is right for you. Sending hugs. Much love. J.

 

[Gnusgal]

I agree with Janet. As much as we would all love to tell you "Go for the gusto," you know full well that you can't go without insurance. Even if the job is less stressful, it will not make your heart issues go away, and any lapse in covereage will make getting insurance later on difficult as well. I agree that it sucks, big time, that we have to think this way when it feels as if the rest of the world doesn't. But it's reality. If you can get health coverage (in writing, as Janet suggested), then the opportunity doesn't sound so bad. But without the health coverage, I don't care how much commission you end up making, it won't be enough... Sorry to be a downer...

But on the plus side, you know you're marketable! (which we always knew you were) Which means there may be another job, one with benefits, out there waiting for you to find it. This may just be a little "confidence booster" along the way. Just because you're offered a job, doesn't mean you have to take the first one.

(side note: I completely scared myself when I misread your subject line as "Life's frustrating decisions (aka cancer options." I nearly fell off the couch and kicked myself for being away from the boards for so long!)

Good luck in your decision

 

[PJmomrunner]

Having good health insurance has really got to be top priority for anyone with a major health problem. Gnusgal is right, you needn't take the first job to come along, although the fact that you would consider it, despite its serious deficiencies, does illustrate your need to move on.

Why not take a systematic approach targeting companies with good health benefits. You are fortunate to be close enough to Chicago where many of the best companies to work for (http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/) will likely have offices/facilities. Try perusing their websites for job openings and go from there.

 

[Harrybaby666]

Cort...I just wanted to lend my support there bud....

Cort...I just wanted to lend my support there bud....

I certainly know how hard it is to find a job these days.....especially a part time job and when your on SSDI, it makes it much harder to get a job as I have found out these past few months.....I just wanted to lend my support and say that I hope you find the right thing for your personal situation as soon as you can and know that I am routing for you all the way.....Harrybaby

 

[T-Money]

Hi Cort.
I haven't met you, but I have read your posts and am familiar with your situation. I'd have to say that this job does not necessarily sound like a champ. The lack of health coverage and, more generally, lack of a benefit package is troublesome. Generally, these companies offer benefits because they trying to attract the best/brightest workers or there is a shortage of labor. I would want to see some serious evidence that commissions will be forthcoming and will be large. Otherwise, something better will come along. Hang in there.
T

 

[Guest]

*sighs*

First things first ... thank you to all that posted a reply. Ya'll wrote pretty much what I knew ... and just needed to read in black'n'white.

Unless the news is 100% ability to cover me, I won't take the job. It's just frustrating that I keep running into brick walls. So many times, I've come across a job that is perfect for me ... and either found out they have little to no insurance benefits ... or have strict lifting (as in weight/pounds) requirements that I can't meet ... or whathaveyou .

Aye.


Janet,
Loved your list ... thank you. Some of those I've checked into already, some of 'em (like the sales last year) I haven't. And, yes, foreclosures are booming ... it's no wonder, since all of the homes being built these days are the type that you either have to have a dual income (gee, I think that'd mean a couple, no?) or a job that pays twice what I'm making now . Aye.


Niki,
Chuckled at your assessment of the topic title .

Definitely a confidence booster, but at the same time, a "deflator" in that it's just another job that I "can't have" ... lol. Ah, well ... one of these days....

And, of course, no need to apologize ... not a downer at all...just reality. Though, I did come across something ... an acquaintance through a friend told me that the governmental guidelines allow for a small amount of "non-covered" time between getting plans.... Not sure how true that is ... definitely wouldn't bank on it, but food for thought, I suppose.


PJ,
Thanks for that link ... and the advice. Trouble is, I don't want to necessarily stay in this area . Plus, I noticed the ones on the list in the Chicagoland area ... are in/near Chicago ... which I do not want because I do not want to "fight" traffic. I know people do it ... and I know I love to drive ... but I think that'd frustrate the crap out of me ... he he eh.


Harry,
Thank you for the support ... right back at you, ya know .


T,
That's just the problem ... I'm not sure how much longer I _can_ hang in there....aye. But, I'll keep plugging along to the best of my ability .


Thanks again, everyone!

 

[gijanet]

Just sending...........

Just sending...........

((((hugs)))) J.

 

[epstns]

Hey Cort,

I'm just back from a weekend without electricity (planned home improvements), and just now seeing this thread. Most of the good advice has already been shared. My own concerns would be first, insurance. As the others have said, get it in writing, with all the details (date of first coverage, pre-exosting condition provisions, if any, and cost). Then by all means, do all you can to get a real idea of what the annual income would be, and decide if a slightly lesser amount would allow you to make ends meet. Bear in mind that this discussion of income is just that -- a discussion. No contract or promise will likely be made, so you have to decide for yourself how much of what you hear you should believe. Also, think about what sort of economic safety net you may have -- if the income is less or is not regular, how much help can you count on to get by?

If it still seems workable, and if you like the feeling, you can give it a try. After all, you'll still be employed, and if you need to continue looking for the ultimate job, it is always easier when you're employed.

Good luck. Keep us posted.

 

[Guest]

Hey Steve,

Never did hear from the insurance folks today, so I have a feeling it's going to be a no go ... which frustrates me to no end . Ah, well ... patience is a virtue ... and good things come to those who wait ... so they say....

Very much appreciate your comments, as I'm sure you know . Thank you!!!

 

[maka]

Hi, there is very little that I can add to all the comments except that it?s great that you had that job offer.....it means you are ?marketable? and others will follow suit, I?m sure. Best of luck and don?t give up....ever

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Cort,

Surely you're familiar with the saying:
"If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is"

Check out the company. Do a GOOGLE Search and contact your local Better Business Bureau.

Did you meet any of the Employees?
Any chance of talking with someone who works there?

...

 

[Yaps]

All I can say Cort is, the insurance saved my life....I know you will choose correctly, I have FAITH..love ya man, the pup

 

[Guest]

*nods*

I appreciate all of your comments/suggestions.

I've turned down the job.

Can't even begin to put into words how bad I feel . But, this, too, shall pass.....

 

[maka]

Cort
Please don't feel bad....be optimistic that you had the job offer. and that there are other opportunities out there that will come your way.
I believe you made the right decision....that should make you feel good
As they say...
Smile, you never know who may fall in love with your smile

 

[epstns]

Cort,

I agree -- I, too, feel that you've made the right decision. It may feel wrong for a little while, while you are wondering what "could have been," but in the Big Picture, I'm convinced that something more suited to your personal needs is out there. As long as you can, hold on until it comes along.

 

[MelissaM]

Hey Cort,

I've been on both sides of the fence - in the spot of trying to figure out my next move and also in the spot of trying to hire the best candidate for the position. As you take a look at various opportunities, here are a few things that get (and don't) get my attention as a hiring manager:

1) The cover letter. For some reason, most candidates neglect writing a cover letter customized for the position. Most of the resumes I receive come with no cover letter. Some come with a generic cover letter. The few that come in with a customized, well-written cover letter immediately get put to the top of my stack. I like knowing that someone can write and put together cogent thoughts.

2) Qualifications. I've seen it all. . .the qualificaiton stretch rarely works. If you don't have the job qualifications, most likely, there is a candidate that DOES have the qualifications. If you are looking to change careers, find some way to GET the qualifications - volunteering, schooling, PT job, whatever. But there is no way I can justify hiring the football player who claims to have teaching skills over the person who has 10 years actual teaching experience.

3) The resume. This is the easy part. Spell correctly. Tell me what you have done. Tailor it to the job.

4) The out-of-town candidate. Unless the qualifications are so overwhelmingly impressive that I need to pay attention, I will always choose a local candidate over an out-of-town candidate. There are too many logistics involved in an out-of-town candidate, it adds another layer of negotiation onto salary considerations. The only way to make yourself appealing as an out-of-town candidate is to put the onus of relocating on yourself. Present yourself as a local candidate by borrowing a freind's local address. An out-of-town cell phone is acceptable, as many folks now have them. When the hiring manager calls, indicate that you are "moving there anyway" and are now looking for a job (vs. implying the employer should move you).

5) Extra effort. If there is any way to call the company and find out who the hiring manager is, do so. I am always pleased by someone who has taken the time to find me and hand-deliver their resume. It shows initiative. I like people who take initiative. But be careful. It is easy to destroy that initiative by abusing your knowledge of who I am. Wait for me to call you - don't hound me with emails or calls. One well-spaced follow-up is fine. Two or more gets annoying.

There are opportunities out there, but you have to make sure the fit is right - for you and your prospective employer - and tap-dance better than the next guy during the recruitment process. Hopefully, the above will give you some insight into the other side of the fence.

Melissa

 

[PamO]

Cort - you and I have gone 'round and 'round about this...but...

I think you made the right decision. Insurance is, for you, the first thing you should think about. Honestly, I use our benefits package as a recruiting tool - it's that rich and still very inexpensive. And it's been the thing that pushed a good candidate into our corner rather than taking a position that may have paid them more. The Peace of Mind Plan is what I call it.

I'll echo Melissa's comments almost to a "T". As Director of HR, I literally throw out resumes that don't have a customized cover letter, have typos or have a resume that isn't a "fit" for the position open. The only thing that I do differently is not accept resumes from individuals who show up at our door. But that's just because we're a pretty small firm and everyone wears a ton of hats - I just don't have the time to meet people without an appointment. I wish I did though!

Get thee into a good search and find what you want to do - and then educate yourself on it and go for it.

Good luck!

 

[maka]

Cort

I heartily agree with Melissa. A well prepared covering letter means a lot, particularly one that shows knowledge about the company?s business. You can get a lot of information about a company in the internet, and it shows that you have taken your time to find out about the place that you want to be part of.
Emphasize your accomplishments and how your knowledge and experience can benefit the position you?re applying for. Don?t know about your education, but sometimes a few courses in a new subject (i.e. accounting software, medical claims processing, ) resulting in a certification may add appeal to your resume. Volunteering in organizations that interest you may open.job opportunities as managers have the chance to know you and the medical benefits become less an issue. Also, it pays to have a professional look at your resume ...it?s money well spent.
Approach hiring agencies and think positively

 

[maka]

Cort
You problably know all about this, but I looked in the internet for Medical insurance in the Chicago area for people who cannot get private insurance and found this web site http://www.chip.state.il.us/elig7.htm
I believe tha plan is called CHIP
Thought I pass it along to you in case it helps
Maka