Conundrum

[beenjamminj]

So, I went on an interview yesterday. I haven't really been looking for a new job, but this was a special instance. It requires a little back story.

First, when I was looking for a new job last year(April), I went on an inter view at Tim Hunter Design http://www.timhunterdesign.com.

Comments

[klingrap]

I don't think it's a question of Money v. Life. Your job is a part of your life, and so is the salary you make. For me, finding a job I'm happy with has been as instrumental in my quality of life as having an exciting social circle and a wonderful boyfriend ;-). Ultimately you're going to spend more of your life at work than you will being sick, on vacation or socializing, so you have to take into account how you're going to feel during that third of your life when you're at the office.

Let's pretend money and vacation days are no object. Which company would you be happier at? Salary and vacation days are always negotiable. If Tim Hunter really wants you, you could say something like "I'd like the job, but in order for it to be worth it to me I'm going to need more paid vacation or more money." Or if Tim Hunter really wants you, you could always say to SIA "someone else wants me. I'm tempted to go there, would you guys like to counter-offer?"

There are other things to take into account, like how you get along with your co-workers, how much room there is for advancement and what kind of work you'll be doing.

You ultimately want to be doing museum exhibit design, which is sort of what Tim Hunter Design does but not quite. Would it make sense to go there as a stepping stone, or would it make more sense to stay at SIA and develop a portfolio of exactly the kind of work you want to be doing that you could then take to a company like ESI?

I'm not telling you what to do - because I honestly don't know. I do know that it's okay to mull over job offers without rushing in - so if they offer you a job, ask if you can come back to check out the office, talk to people who work there and meet the boss. Also, given what happened over the summer, you want a contract signed in blood before you give your notice.

I'm happy to talk whenever - and I'll love you no matter what you do.