I'm on maternity leave and due to go back in April. My current employer is chasing me about signing a new contract with them and would like it by end of this month. The contract appears to be permanent, same role and same financial terms which I am very annoyed about as I have explicitly asked for better pay and more of a challenge. I know they do not have to give me anything but I have worked really hard for them and it is widely acknowledged that I make a huge difference. My fear is that nothing will change going forward, I will continue to be paid peanuts and at the same time resent that I would have to present ultimatums for them to react.
I have also been approached by a newly set up competitor who don't have any vacancies at present but have suggested there will be something before summer. They are aware of my need for flexible working hours and better pay (current pay leaves practically pennies after childcare costs) and of the fact that I am undervalued at my current job - hence headhunting me.
I feel a bit unprofessional signing a contract when I am on the lookout for a new job but at the same time cannot afford not to go back either as childcare fees need to be paid for and I don't want to lose the childcare places. What would you do?