Should I accept this job offer?

[Hopefullyendsmeet]

I was made redundant a year ago. Was in a reasonably well paid job (£40k) then the company went bust.

Had to downsize and so lived on savings and temp work, meanwhile furiously applying for permanent jobs until - hurrah, I got one!!!!

The thing is, it’s exactly half of what I used to earn. If I accept this job, it’s at least 2 years before I get any kind of reasonable jab at a promotion. And even then there is a ceiling for how much you can earn. Maximum it would be roughly what I was earning before I was made redundant.

AIBU to consider turning the offer down so that I can find something with more potential? Or should I suck it up and accept that I’ll only ever make a c£30k salary? If it helps, I’m in my 40s.

Honestly, if it's been a year to find a new job and the new one is minimum wage, then you need to question the industry and role. If you're in your 40s, you do need the money and the pension, and do you want to be out of work or hand to mouth for the rest of your life? I'd don't want to sound harsh, but this does sound worrying.

In the meantime, I'd probably take the job and start thinking about what's next.

No don’t do it. Taking the job then lowers your earning potential for the next one. Rather than this temping or contracting is better - many agencies offer this in a wide range of job roles

Personally I wouldn't take the role. You accept that lower pay now, your next role will only see that pay as a reflection of what you are worth. Temp and hold out for a better paying permanent role.

How much is your reputation based on pieces of work? Does it limit you if you haven't danced / exhibited / produced or whatever fits in a while? Does the job give you any access to training that you need to keep up dated? It's not ideal being so much lower in pay but would you be happier? Would being in the right industry make you more confident and therefore more marketable?

Personally although I get why you are worried about references I don't actually think it will matter that much.

I’m a bit baffled by a job paying £15k that requires huge commitment. Unless you abolsutely love what you do, you could get a basic office job for more money and less hassle. I appreciate you’ve said it is niche so don’t want to pry but are there realistic opportunities for you to earn more in the new company or do they know they can get people desperate to do the job for a year for little pay (I.e you’re vulnerable).

I would probably take it as you will get NI contribution, paid hols & sick pay. I can't see temping being much more cash tbh & you will also have something on your CV.