Don’t know whether to accept job offer

[Josie1968]

Hi

i recently applied for a job I’ve always fancied doing - but the time was never right due to personal reasons. But I applied in October, had interview two weeks ago and have been offered the job.

The (slight) problem is that I love my current job, my work colleagues and my clients. I’m pretty sure I’m going to accept the job, but I can’t help but feel sad about leaving my job and telling my manager I’m leaving. She’s a good manager, very fair and understanding if need time off or be flexible.

I’m not sure what I’m wanting from people here.. I guess I’m just nervous of the unknown, I don’t like being the ‘new person’ and having to get to know people all over again when I feel so comfortable in my current job. But I think the prospects are good with the move and it is something I’ve been interested in a long time. I’m 53 too, so a bit late for a move!!

Josie x

Good luck! It’s natural to feel apprehensive about the move but if not now, when?! Do you remember meeting people who’ve been in a company for 20 years and they’re “part of the furniture”?

Look forward 5 years? What will you regret more? Leaving your current role? Or not taking this opportunity?

Thanks.. yes I guess it is natural to feel a bit anxious. And yes I do think I’d regret not taking this opportunity. I just really think it’s fear of the unknown and leaving my comfort zone. As the book says I just need to ‘feel the fear and do it anyway!’ I will miss my work colleagues but hopefully I’ll meet more lovely people:)

I'm in my late 50s, so a few years older than you. A year ago I started a new job in a completely new sector. Still using my professional skills but in a completely new way. I absolutely love it and wish I had made the move years ago.

So please don't let your age hold you back! You have 15 years at least until retirement, that's too long to spend treading water in a rut.

Remember, you have been offered this job because your new employers are confident you are the best person for the job. Go for it and congratulations! !

Jeez, I'm 65 and have just been offered another role so you've plenty of catching up to do

If you want the job, and I'd wonder why you applied if you didn't, then go for it.

Good luck in your new role.

I wouldn’t worry about leaving a job just because of what your line manager may feel. People move on in life and you say 53 is late for moving jobs - personally I don’t think it is. Retirement age is currently 66 - so you have 13 years until that point - some choose to go before or on their 66th Birthday, some choose to carry on working.
You have got to weigh up the pros and cons to see what role would be right for you. This prospective position might look good on paper, but completely different when it comes to it.