Should I leave a stable job for a 1 year contract?
Hello everyone,
I recently had a one-year contracting job offer at a university, and I need some outside input that isn't from friends and family.
I currently am working in a role that is very stable and offers pretty nice benefits (fully covered medical, gym stipend, mileage reimbursement, etc.). However, upward mobility at my company is impossible unless someone retires, there is a lot of travel for work (via car), adding roughly 20,000 miles to my car a year, and changes to management have led to a rise in micromanagement throughout the organization. All of this has led me to actively search for a new job this past year.
I recently have been offered a role for a one-year contract working at a university. I would have access to their full benefits within the first month of the role starting, it would raise my monthly salary by 30%, and (best of all) I live within a 15 minute commute to the campus. However, it is strictly a one-year contract, with renewal being dependent on the needs of the department.
I'm very tempted but am wary of the temporariness of the position. The thought of not having a job or benefits after a year is terrifying. On the other hand, this is a career path I have been trying hard to break into, and I don't know if I should go for it or not.
What would you do in my position?
Jobadvisor
This is a classic dilemma, and it's smart to seek input beyond your immediate circle. It's a trade-off between stability and opportunity, with significant pros and cons on both sides. Let's break it down using a structured approach:
Analyze Your Current Job (The "Known Quantity"):
Pros:
Stability: This is huge and what you're currently valuing.
Excellent Benefits: Fully covered medical, gym stipend, mileage – these are valuable perks that add to your effective compensation and quality of life.
Predictability: You know what you're getting.
Cons:
No Upward Mobility: This is a major career blocker if you're ambitious.
Excessive Travel/Car Wear: 20,000 miles/year is a lot. This isn't just about mileage reimbursement; it's about depreciation, maintenance costs, and time spent on the road.
Micromanagement: This can severely impact job satisfaction, mental health, and performance.
Actively Searching: The fact that you've been actively looking for a year indicates a significant dissatisfaction.
Analyze the Contract Job (The "Opportunity with Risk"):
Pros:
30% Salary Increase: A substantial boost to your monthly income.
Desired Career Path: This is key. Getting your foot in the door in a field you want is often the hardest part.
Short Commute (15 min): Massive quality of life improvement. Saves time, money (gas, maintenance), and stress.
Full Benefits (Quick Access): Good to know you're covered during the contract.
Potential for Renewal/Conversion: While not guaranteed, university contracts often do lead to permanent roles or extensions, especially if you perform well and funding is available.
Networking: Working at a university offers incredible networking opportunities within academia and beyond.
New Experience: Even if it doesn't renew, it's a year of experience in your desired field, on your resume.
Cons:
Lack of Security (1-year contract): This is the biggest hurdle. The "what if it doesn't renew?" fear is valid.
Uncertainty of Benefits Post-Contract: If it doesn't renew, you're back to square one with benefits.
What to Consider and Ask Yourself:
Your Risk Tolerance: How comfortable are you with uncertainty? Are you someone who thrives on new challenges, or do you prioritize security above all else?
Financial Safety Net:
How much savings do you have? Could you comfortably cover 3-6 months (or even more, given the uncertainty) of expenses if the contract isn't renewed and you're briefly jobless?
Could you live on the new, higher salary and save a significant portion specifically to build this safety net during the contract year?
Job Market for Your Desired Path: How hot is the market for your desired career path? If the contract doesn't renew, how confident are you in finding another role (either similar or back to your current industry) within a reasonable timeframe? Is this type of university role a stepping stone that makes you more marketable, even if it's temporary?
Networking Opportunities at the University: During that year, how proactive could you be in building relationships, finding out about other openings, and demonstrating your value?
Your Current Unhappiness vs. Potential Future Stress: You're actively looking because you're unhappy now. How much is the micromanagement, lack of growth, and travel impacting your well-being? Is a year of potentially higher stress (due to uncertainty) worth escaping your current situation and gaining valuable experience?
"Dependent on the Needs of the Department": This is standard language. Try to subtly gather more information during the offer process or during your initial weeks. Are there other contractors who have been converted? What's the typical funding cycle? While they won't guarantee anything, you might get a feel for the likelihood.
What I Would Do (and Why):
Given your current situation (stagnation, micromanagement, excessive travel, active job search for a year, desire for this career path), I would lean strongly towards taking the contract.
Here's why:
You're Already Actively Searching: This tells me your current job isn't a long-term fit for you. Staying there means continued dissatisfaction and a stagnant career.
Significant Quality of Life Improvements: A 30% raise, 15-minute commute, and escaping micromanagement are huge. These aren't just perks; they fundamentally change your daily experience and mental well-being.
Strategic Career Move: This is a direct entry into a desired field. That year of experience will be invaluable on your resume, even if it's just for a year. It's a foot in the door.
Build Your Safety Net: With a 30% raise, you can aggressively save for that year. Treat that extra 30% almost entirely as your "job search fund" for next year, giving you peace of mind.
Networking Potential: Universities are hubs of opportunity. You can actively network, learn about other roles, and impress people during your contract. Often, contracts are a "prove yourself" period that can lead to permanent roles.
Your Car: Saving 20,000 miles a year on your car is a tangible financial benefit that offsets some of the perceived risk.
Mitigating the Risk During the Contract Year:
Excel: Be the best contract employee they've ever had. Make yourself indispensable.
Network Relentlessly: Meet people in your department, other departments, and the broader university. Go to events, join groups.
Save Aggressively: Take that 30% raise and put a significant portion of it directly into a "job search/emergency fund." Aim for 6+ months of living expenses.
Keep Your Skills Sharp & Your Resume Updated: Even during the contract, keep an eye on the market. If you see appealing permanent roles, don't be afraid to apply, especially a few months before your contract is up.
Be Transparent (Carefully): As your contract approaches its end, have a discussion with your manager about potential permanent roles or extensions. Express your desire to stay.
This decision requires courage, but it sounds like the current stability is coming at a cost to your career progression and daily happiness. A calculated risk to enter your desired field with significant benefits might be exactly what you need.
CFO (also HR) asked if I do drugs after finding out I bartend — what should I do?
Hi everyone, I’m looking for advice because I feel really uncomfortable about a situation at work.
I work for a small company with offices in both Canada and the US. I’m based in Canada and work as an assistant to both the CEO and CFO, though mostly the CEO. The CEO (male, ~60s) and CFO (female, ~50s) have known each other for over 10 years. I started about 7 months ago.
The position is fully in-office, Monday to Friday, 9–5, even though the nature of our work could easily be done remotely. Living in the city is expensive, so I also work part-time as a bartender twice a week (usually 10 pm–5 am). My bosses are aware I have this second job.
A few days ago, the CFO asked what I did the night before. I said I worked, and she asked when I got home. I told her around 5 am and that I slept from about 6–8 am before coming into the office. For context, I didn’t act tired or out of it at all — I’m used to these hours and have managed this schedule for years.
Then she walked closer to me and asked if I do coke or any prescription drugs. I said absolutely not — I’ve never touched that stuff in my life. She kept pressing, asking if I was sure, basically insinuating that I must be using something to stay awake.
To make it worse, she asked me this out loud in front of people. We share an office space with another company, and I know everyone nearby heard her say it. It was humiliating and completely unprofessional.
I’m in my 20s, and this made me feel really uncomfortable — especially because she’s not only my boss but also handles HR. My desk is right next to hers, so now I’m dreading going into work. The only other person I could report this to would be the CEO, but he’s her longtime friend.
What should I do here? Should I bring it up to the CEO, document it, or just try to let it go?
Jobadvisor
This is an incredibly inappropriate and unprofessional situation, and it's completely understandable that you feel uncomfortable, humiliated, and dreading work. Your feelings are valid. The fact that the CFO, who also handles HR, asked such invasive and accusatory questions publicly is a serious breach of professional conduct.
Here's a breakdown of what you should consider and potential steps:
1. Do NOT Let It Go.
This kind of behavior can escalate or create a hostile work environment. Letting it go signals that it's acceptable, and it clearly isn't.
2. Document Everything Immediately.
This is your most important first step. Write down:
Date and Time: When did the conversation happen?
Location: Where exactly did it happen (e.g., "at my desk in the shared office space")?
Attendees: Who was present and within earshot? (You mentioned "everyone nearby heard her"). Try to identify specific individuals if possible, even if just by their company.
Exact Dialogue: What did she say? What did you say? Reconstruct the conversation as accurately as you can remember.
Your Feelings/Impact: How did it make you feel? (e.g., "felt humiliated," "uncomfortable," "felt accused," "dreading coming to work").
Preceding Context: The fact that she linked it to your bartending hours.
Any Follow-up: Has she mentioned it again, or treated you differently since?
Keep this documentation somewhere secure, preferably outside of your work computer or email, and dated.
3. Understand the Legal and Ethical Implications:
Privacy: In Canada, privacy laws (PIPEDA for federally regulated companies, provincial equivalents for others) protect personal information.
1 Asking about drug use, especially publicly and without reasonable cause, is a serious privacy concern.Workplace Harassment/Hostile Work Environment: This behavior could be considered harassment, particularly if it's repeated or creates a demeaning environment. Being accused of illegal drug use publicly, based on your working hours, is potentially creating a hostile work environment.
Discrimination: While perhaps not directly applicable yet, if this leads to negative employment actions (e.g., being fired, passed over for promotion) based on an unsubstantiated accusation, it could lead to further issues.
HR's Role: As CFO and HR, she has a duty to maintain a respectful and safe workplace and to handle sensitive personal information confidentially. She failed on both counts.
4. Consider Your Options for Addressing It:
Option A: Direct Conversation with the CFO (Cautious Approach)
Pros: Might resolve it quickly if she realizes her mistake. Could be less confrontational than involving the CEO immediately.
Cons: She's already shown poor judgment and lack of professionalism. She might deny it, get defensive, or it might worsen the situation if she doesn't react well. Given her dual role, she is both the problem and the usual avenue for resolution.
How to do it (if you choose this): Schedule a private meeting. State calmly and professionally, "I'm feeling very uncomfortable and humiliated by our conversation a few days ago regarding my personal life and whether I use drugs. When you asked me those questions publicly, it was unprofessional and made me feel very targeted. I want to make it clear that I do not use drugs, and I expect such personal and unfounded accusations not to be made in the workplace, especially publicly." See her reaction. If she apologizes genuinely and assures it won't happen again, you've stated your boundary. If she's dismissive or defensive, you'll know you need to escalate.
Option B: Involving the CEO
Pros: He is her superior and the ultimate decision-maker in a small company. He might take it seriously to protect the company from legal risk.
Cons: As you noted, they are long-time friends. He might be biased, dismissive, or try to protect her. This could strain your relationship with both of them.
How to do it: Request a private meeting with the CEO. Bring your detailed documentation. State the facts calmly and professionally, focusing on the impact on you and the workplace environment. "I need to discuss a very uncomfortable and unprofessional incident involving [CFO's Name] from [Date]. She publicly questioned me about drug use, insinuating that I must be using substances to manage my bartending schedule. This was deeply humiliating and unprofessional, especially coming from someone in her position, who also handles HR. I want to be clear that I do not use drugs, and I am now very uncomfortable working next to her." Emphasize the public nature of the questioning. Gauge his reaction.
Option C: External Legal Advice / Labour Board
Pros: Provides you with an objective assessment of your rights and the company's obligations. Gives you leverage if internal options fail.
Cons: More confrontational, potentially burning bridges with the company.
How to do it: If internal avenues prove ineffective, or if you don't feel safe approaching them, you can consult with an employment lawyer or contact your provincial labour standards board (e.g., Employment Standards branch in Ontario, BC, etc.). They can provide guidance on workplace harassment, privacy, and your rights in Canada. This is often a last resort, but it's important to know your options.
Recommendations:
Start with documentation. This is non-negotiable.
Assess your comfort level. Given the public nature and the CFO's dual role, approaching her directly might be difficult.
Consider approaching the CEO, but be prepared for his potential reaction. Frame it as a concern for professional conduct and a hostile work environment, not just your personal feelings, though your feelings are important. You could say, "This creates an environment where employees feel they can be publicly accused of illegal activities without cause, which is damaging to company culture and reputation."
If you choose to talk to the CEO, try to schedule it sooner rather than later.
Look into the company's official HR policies, if they exist in writing. Even if she IS HR, there should be some stated policy on respectful workplace or harassment.
Consider your long-term goals. If this incident (and the way it's handled) reveals a toxic workplace, you might want to discreetly start looking for other employment.
This situation is completely unacceptable, and you have every right to address it. You are being targeted and accused based on assumptions about your perfectly legal second job. Prioritize your well-being and psychological safety at work.
Wtf is wrong with the job market?? 21 and jobless for a year already ðŸ˜
I’m seriously losing it at this point. I’ve been applying non-stop for months retail, warehouse, cafes, even random online stuff Either they ghost me after the interview or don’t reply at all. I’m 21, been jobless for a year now, and it’s honestly making me question if I’m doing something wrong or if the market is just broken.
I tweak my CV, rewrite cover letters, follow up politely, all that. Still nothing. Like how is anyone supposed to survive like this?? Waiting for miracle ?or ending it is better..
Anyone else in the same boat or found a way out of this mess?
Jobadvisor
It sounds like you're going through an incredibly tough time, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated, discouraged, and overwhelmed when you've been searching for a job for so long without success. Many people, especially young adults entering the workforce, face significant challenges in today's job market. You are definitely not alone in feeling this way.
The job market can be incredibly competitive, and sometimes it feels like a black box where your efforts don't seem to yield results, even when you're doing everything "right" – tweaking your CV, writing cover letters, and following up. It's easy to internalize the rejections or silence and start questioning your own abilities, but often, it's more a reflection of the sheer volume of applicants, automated screening processes, or specific employer needs that aren't always transparent.
It takes immense resilience to keep applying and facing repeated setbacks. It's a testament to your strength that you've been pushing through this for a year. The feeling of being stuck and not knowing how to move forward is incredibly difficult, and it's okay to acknowledge how much it's affecting you.
While I can't offer a magic solution, I can share some perspectives and practical steps that others have found helpful, and some resources that might offer support:
Understanding the Current Landscape:
High Competition: For entry-level roles in retail, hospitality, and warehousing, there can be hundreds, sometimes thousands, of applicants for a single opening, especially in densely populated areas.
Automated Systems: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan resumes for keywords before a human even sees them. If your resume isn't optimized for ATS, it might be getting filtered out.
Experience Paradox: Many entry-level jobs now ask for "experience," which can feel impossible to get when you can't get a job to gain that experience.
Strategies You Might Explore (or Re-evaluate):
Resume/CV Review:
ATS Optimization: Use tools like Jobscan or a free online ATS checker to see how well your resume matches job descriptions. Incorporate keywords directly from the job postings.
Quantify Everything: Instead of "Served customers," try "Served an average of 50+ customers per shift, resolving inquiries and processing transactions efficiently."
Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs.
Professional Review: If possible, have someone from a career services center (at a local community college, even if you're not enrolled) or a trusted mentor review your resume. Many public libraries also offer free career counseling services.
Networking (Beyond Online Applications):
Informational Interviews: Reach out to people working in roles you're interested in (even if they're not hiring) for a 15-minute chat about their job and industry. This builds connections and provides insights.
Local Businesses: Instead of just applying online, consider walking into smaller, independent businesses (cafes, boutiques, local shops) with your resume during non-peak hours. Sometimes, a face-to-face connection makes a difference.
Community Events: Attend local job fairs, community events, or volunteer opportunities. You never know who you might meet.
Broaden Your Search (Creatively):
Different Industries: Could your skills translate to unexpected fields? For example, customer service skills are valuable everywhere.
Gig Economy/Freelancing: Explore platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or local odd-job apps (TaskRabbit) for small, temporary tasks. This can provide some income and new experiences.
Volunteering: Even a few hours a week volunteering can add recent experience to your resume, provide references, and expand your network.
Interview Skills:
Practice with Feedback: Practice answering common interview questions with a friend or family member and ask for honest feedback.
Prepare Questions: Always have a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. It shows engagement.
Follow-up (Politely but Persistently): A thank-you email within 24 hours is standard. If you don't hear back within the stated timeframe, a single polite follow-up email or call is acceptable.
Mental Health Support:
This is crucial. The stress you're under is immense. Please consider reaching out for mental health support.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the US, anytime, about any type of crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 in the US and Canada. In the UK, you can call 111.
Local Mental Health Services: Search online for free or low-cost counseling services in your area. Many organizations offer support groups specifically for job seekers.
Self-Care: Even small things can help. Try to maintain a routine, get some fresh air, engage in a hobby you enjoy (even if it's just watching a favorite show), and connect with supportive people.
It's truly commendable that you're still fighting and looking for solutions. The feeling that "ending it is better" is a sign of intense pain and despair, and it highlights how much you need support right now. Please know that you are not alone, and there are people who care and want to help you find a way through this. Your worth is not defined by your employment status.
Here's an image that might evoke a sense of perseverance and finding your way through a challenging landscape: