I’m in a dilemma about a job decision and would appreciate input.
I spent years in an organisation in an area I really enjoyed with good work/life balance and, eventually, decent pay. I’d gone as far as I could with my career development so switched to a related sector about 2 years ago and have been miserable since.
The role I’m in now was sold to me as very relevant to my previous experience and expertise but has turned out to be far from it. I still really struggle with the technical aspects and although I have voiced this, I have had no guidance or training to help me improve. I have gone from being extremely confident in my abilities and decision making in previous roles to feeling like I have nothing valuable to add.
A job recently came up that looked much more aligned to my interests and experience. I interviewed and was offered the job at the salary I asked for. However, the major drawback is that the job is 24 months fixed term. The team has said their intention is to extend the funding, but due to budgets this cannot be guaranteed.
For relevant context, I’m 33 and in a good relationship with my partner of 4 years. I’d like to start trying for a family in the next 12 months, but worried I’m going to be screwing myself over by taking the new job as occupational maternity pay won’t start until 12 months in post, and then the role could potentially end after 2 years. If I stayed, occupational maternity leave would count now and role would be guaranteed on return to work.
So… AIBU to take the new job?