Damn, damn, damn!

[dodobookends]

I've been freelance for over 10 years, but lately things have dried up a lot and financially things have been a bit tough, so I applied for a part-time job because I had to do something rather than sit around the house all day worrying about money. Went to the interview, and got shortlisted and recalled for a second interview. Towards the end of the second interview I was asked the stock "Where do you see yourself in 5 years' time?" question, and while answering it, I had the powerful realisation that I definitely didn't see myself working there and didn't actually want that particular job. I must have managed to keep my thoughts out of my face and bluffed my way through the rest of the interview though, because they've only gone and offered me the job (and at a higher salary than I asked for)!

I don't want it!

It is 5 mornings rather than 2 or 3 full days which would have suited me better and would cost less in petrol and it's an early start and I don't do mornings.

The trouble is we need the money. I've accepted it - I really don't want to do it, but I have to take the job as I've got to start earning somehow.

How am I going to change my mindset and live up to the person that I said I was at the interview when my heart isn't in it?

Damn and blast...

[MrsMargoLeadbetter]

Will the money be enough to live on? If so, could you see it as a short term (for you, obvs not them) break from the hussle/worry of running your own show? Time to be part of a team etc.

If you intent to combine it with other work, then actually having some time each day might work better. Obviously depends what work you do. Write a list of the benefits of a job?

I'd give a go. If it doesn't work out you leave....

[dodobookends]

Thanks for responding. We're managing at the moment (just) but our meagre savings are getting lower and lower. The thing that bothers me is having to be in a certain place at a certain time each day, set hours, specific holidays and all that comes with having someone telling me what to do rather than being my own boss. I've been self-employed a long time and I'm not sure how I'm going to cope with the loss of freedom!

There are a couple of other things re the actual job as well, but since it is a small family-run firm in a very niche market and a specific industry so would be identifiable if I said any more.

I think I'm just going to have to suck it and see, aren't I?!!

[LonnyVonnyWilsonFrickett]

Remember there are downsides to freelancing too - work drying up being one of them! All ways of working have pros and cons. So there will be aspects of this you don't like. But yes, you will just have to suck it up, you can't swan in and announce 'I don't do mornings' on your first day. Leave that till after your probation period

Actually, that's a serious thought - get your feet under the table then look to change the hours, find a way of convincing them two days a week would work better. It's been a while since you've been on the inside, most firms these days will be flexible once you've built up a little bit of cred.

[MrsMargoLeadbetter]

Ah lovely to 'see' you Lonny - always wise words. Hope you are well!

[SapphireStrange]

I was going to suggest discussing the days/hours with them too.

I'm freelance and I totally understand the work drying up thing, and also that the thought of having to do office hours again is not very appealing! But it sounds as though needs must, in the short term at least. Give it a bit of time.