Option 1.
It's taken a while to secure a role. I work in sales/marketing/promotions and was finally offered a role (as second choice candidate after first candidate declined). The interview felt 'flat' to me and they seemed bored with me. I was surprised to be 2nd choice. Role is with a pretty big English charity company and is completely remote. Company has had a few issues in the past (some big issues) and reviews I have found online are not great, albeit there are some good reviews. They're 'ok' i suppose. There are good things about them.
They really desperately need someone in this role as the previous person has left and work is piling up. Due to start in two weeks when manager is back from leave. It wouldn't be a taxing job for me. Role is permanent.
Option 2
From left field, enter company two. I really like this organisation and they have a great reputation. Large national English company. Do a lot of fundraising in local areas. I was interviewed for another role with them, wasnt successful (it was a stretch junior manager role and I wasn't really expecting to be offered) but they passed my details to the promotions team who are recruiting for four positions. Was interviewed and offered role. 2.5k more than the first role. Fully remote role.
The option 2 role is not permanent but contract to June 2026. The recruiter said very likely it will be extended and possibly the people who are seconded elsewhere won't return as they're currently in a higher roles/different teams. But no guarantees. I feel 2nd role is more inline with my experience and role interest. Definitely preferred organisation.
My partner says not to be ridiculous, permanent always trumps, I'd be silly to even consider option 2. We are early 30's and will look to get a mortgage over the next year or so but need to save more money first. Probably a year or just less of savings to go before can apply for mortgage.
My sister says take option 2. I'd really been keen on this organisation in the past and they're competitive to get into. They have a really good reputation. She said once I'm in I could really shine/show what I could do and if I'm known, it's easier to apply for any other roles if the contract one doesn't extend. She also said companies don't show loyalty to employees if they need to downsize, save money, make staff redundant etc so don't worry about thinking from a moral point of view.
I don't know what to do. I also feel really bad if I was the second candidate to pull out of the option 1 organisation especially as I'm nearly at the commence stage. Really would feel like I've wasted their time.
Help!