Reddit, I need advice on whether to a move to a new job.
Several weeks ago I was asked to do a preliminary interview with a large IT solutions company, which also happens to rank in the top 10 on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For (for reference, my current employer is not in the top 100 despite being an industry leader in hardware, software, and services). The interviewing company had received my resume from an old employee and wanted to talk about an opportunity based on my experience. Cut to now, after multiple interviews, I have been offered a position at the company.
So, some background - I have been at my present employer for 10 years and generally like the company and the job that I do. I just started a new role that is less technical, but more on the managerial and business side. Prior to this interview process, I have not thought about leaving, particularly since I just started in this role a few months ago. I also like my boss and feel that I could learn much from him. All that said, this job is a means to an end (retirement) and is not something I necessarily look forward to each day. With that, does loyalty mean much anymore?
The offer from the new company is a parallel move with more money, larger bonus potential, and stock options. If I were to take this job, I would have the same benefits, same work-life flexibility, a slightly better commute, and I would get to work with interesting technology. The downside as I see it is the unknown - eg., my new boss could be a dick, I may not have the resources available to me to do what they're asking me to do, and outsourcing is always a concern (with any tech company). The upside however, certainly has potential - good upward mobility, by all accounts a fantastic company to work for, plus my actions and deliverables wouldn't be layered in executive chain of command and bureaucracy.
I'm really at a crossroads - somewhat split down the middle. I don't think I can make a bad decision, but I'm having a difficult time making the best decision. I wouldd love to have some opinions on this from the reddit community.
Posted Oct 11, 2010, 5:13 PM UTC
Listen to your gut instinct on this one. If you leave amicably, it's possible that your old employer would take you back. Just let them know that your decision to move is based upon your desire for greater compensation. Heck, they might even offer you a raise to stay.
Point is, moving around within the industry is extremely common. If handled in a professional manner, you may find that the door remains open.
I agree with this man. If all else is essentially equal, go for the dollars and the new and exciting. Could it be harrowing at first? Absolutely, but you'll be learning new things, expanding your horizons, becoming a well rounded person, and a better person. Oh, and making more money. Seems like a no-brainer to me.