Would you accept this job?

[Pixiedixiesnow]

Have recently been made redundant and had to find a new job, quickly. Was very very lucky to find a great job a month later, with a fantastic company (for context, it’s with one of the top five pharmaceutical companies globally), great career progression&prestigious. The only thing is, I have to come into the office twice a week and the office is 75 miles away. I considered going in two consecutive days and staying near the office overnight but the cheapest hotel in the area is £90/night. This means I’ll effectively be earning less than in my previous role, as my new salary gives me roughly £100 more a month after tax, but commute will be at least £40-50/week in petrol and if I need to stay overnight, I’ll have to use my (small) savings. Would you:

YABU: suck up the commute and the financial hit, it’s not that bad and having less money/very little savings are worth it for future career progression

YANBU: would look for a less prestigious role closer to home/fully remote to save time and money

Not sure if important but I am mid 30s, loving with long-term partner who’s willing to relocate next year if I like the job, no kids but pets, have my own car but very very old and basic (think no AC in heatwave)

Think it depends on the company culture vs what they say at the start. Some places have a clear “must be in two days” and others - possibly dependent on immediate manager you find are lots more flexible when you are actually in the role.
Also - I know someone who did similar but lodged with someone once a week, cheaper than hotel and they became good friends. Suited them both so there maybe other options

I was on the fence until I saw it was short term and you could move. See if you can get a cheaper overnight lodging or basic room. Being in a good job helps you get the next good job. Also depends what the journeys like. Is public transport definitely a no go? Coventry to Londons doable in an hour for example

I would take it and look at moving in time (no kids and your partner is very supportive)

i would try and get a guesthouse or get a room on air b&m or something

It would depend how long 75 miles takes you to drive. But I'd probably stay over the middle night.

You currently have no job.., earning zero £.
You have been offered a good job with a good company and plenty of prospects…
You are unsure it’s worth it as you will need to pay up to £140 a week expenses to attend the good job.
This is a no-brainer to me…..take the job!!
It’s an instant income, prospects, experience. The worst thing that can happen is you don’t like the job/commute and need to find a new job closer to home.
you will have lost nothing….a bird in the hand and all that. Good luck 🍀
Ps. Have you checked to see if the big pharma company has a special arrangement/ hotel rate for employees? You might get cheaper accommodation.

Thank you for your comment. They said it must be two days and in the future it may increase. I am not sure how strict they will be. Job can be done fully remotely but it’s a large company so decision is left to the CEO/top rather than individual managers.

I have such bad social anxiety, the idea of staying as a lodger makes me a little stressed but I will look at this, thanks for the suggestion. If I find someone nice, I guess then I wouldn’t mind as much staying with them regularly.

Thanks, I considered public transport but it would be 3 changes and 2 and half hours one way, versus 1 and half hour drive (if I leave early to beat the traffic). Travel is mostly up M25 towards Stevenage and we are in the south east.

Hi @Pixiedixiesnow i think because it's one of the top pharmaceutical companies i would take the job, it will look great on your cv.
All the best in your decision.