To not consider this job?

[TaterTots]

Trying not to write a dissertation here, so bear with me if I accidentally miss anything

My job is being relocated next year and I don't plan to go with it. It's guaranteed until at least June, so no mad rush to get something else - plus I get a pretty decent severance package if I wait, which I'd lose if I go now.

I've been approached by an agency today about a role with a company I used to work for. I was there for four years - three were good, but the last was hell, mainly thanks to a horrendous head of department. I would have said 'no' without a second thought, except it's a new division of the company and, according to the agency, run as a separate business. (They're a large corporation and I know that's how they manage some other businesses they own.)

The pay rise would be enough to make it worth turning the severance package down. I know I can be good at the job. However, I can't help worrying I'd be putting my head back in the lion's mouth. I worry that I've started seeing my early years there through rose-tinted glasses and blaming the bad times purely on ex-boss. I look back at old FB posts sometimes and see how stressed I used to be even beofre she was around, even though I liked the job a lot. I also think that, even in a semi-separate business, the tough culture would seep in.

Should I just say 'thanks but no thanks' this time and stuck where I am until next year?

[ImperialBlether]

Is your old boss still there?

[TaterTots]

No, long gone. She left the industry altogether.

[Slowtrain2dawn]

Your gut seems to be telling you no, I'd go with it. Unless jobs in your line of work are hard to come by, maybe something better will come up by June so you won't have to lose the severance pay?

[DrunkOnEther]

Do you know anyone who still works there? Even if you just have them as friends on Facebook or similar?

How long ago did you leave this company? A lot can change over the years, not just within a company, but in yourself too. What stressed you out back then might not now?

Also, if the pay is enough to make missing your severance worth it, that suggests a significant pay rise, which long-term would be good.

If you did take it, but after 6 months you really did hate it, then you could always look for something else then - you would be, anyway, if you didn't take it.

[TaterTots]

I left nearly four years ago. I know a fair few people who are still there and they seem happy enough - but I also don't know anyone who regrets leaving.

[thegoodnameshadgone]

Go for the interview anyway it will be good experience before you have to start looking. You will probably perform really well as you'll be less nervous and you can ask any questions without feeling the awkwardness of "if I ask such and such will I put them off" good luck

[TaterTots]

I've opted for the oh-so mature solution of having a massive drink and seeing how I feel then

[thegoodnameshadgone]

Just out of interest what did you decide? I'm having a massive wine as dd is with her dad