WWYD - big pay cut but a job I want…

[EllaMozarella]

Hi MN,
My Role was made redundant in Jan this year, I’ve been struggling to find any jobs I want or have the skillset & experience for, the job market feels impossible currently. I have landed some interviews & haven’t been successful but I have known each time I’m not really the right fit.
I have an interview next week for a job that ticks all the boxes in terms of great opportunity to learn, have relevant knowledge & experience but the salary is really low. It’s not a leadership role like my last two (I’m happy about this) and there’s flexibility but I am going to be significantly affected. As a single mum who rents, will get some UC support, & am good at living frugally but I’m so unsure.
There are literally no other jobs in the pipeline & im missing routine & purpose. WWYD?
Has anyone done this & it’s been positive?
There might be ‘some’ room for negotiation on salary if I’m successful but not lots as it’s 3rd sector.
Im in my 40s now so trying to figure out if I’m being ridiculous (salary) or sensible (less job pressure) 🙏

If you're not working, then you've got nothing to lose? The jobs market is pretty brutal at the moment.

What is the scope for growth?

Bird in hand is worth two in the bush….

Do you really have a choice at the moment? If you are offered the job I think you should take it. You can carry on applying for jobs if it doesn't suit you or there's no scope for progressing. You can either be out of a job and stay at home going crazy with nothing to do or take the job and see how things go. I know what I would do. Good luck 😊

Is it more than you currently get while unemployed? If so why not take it and see what happens. There may be potential once you start for advancement or more money. You can always keep job hunting while employed and at least it'll be better than a gap in your resume.

Thanks for the replies! Really useful to read everyone’s thoughts. My confidence isn’t great at the moment & im so indecisive. There is definitely scope for growth/seems like a great org & zero travel costs.

Take it as a stopgap, at least! As others have said, the jobs market is brutal and it's always easier to find something else or progress when you are in work, rather than out of work.

It is much easier to get a job when you’re in a job. Do the sums, sounds like there are lots of pluses. Good luck.

Have you considered the whole package? I took a big salary cut when moving to a not for profit but I get more holiday and more generous pension provision.

And the zero travel costs will certainly add a chunk to your disposable income.

In the same boat as you. Is there potential to negotiate more pay if offered to you? I'd be inclined to take it as there are so few jobs around right now. Good luck!

You want the job, there's no others in pipeline, and it's technically not a pay cut as you're not getting paid currently. I'd take the job and see where it takes you. Always better to be working and apply for other jobs from there if so inclined.

It's a lot higher pay than nothing. Take it and keep looking as well.

What job is it? I don’t think you have anything to lose!

Working will really help your confidence and mental health. With UC the difference in take-home is probably less that you’d think.Negotiate as much as you can but definitely take the job if offered. You can then keep looking for higher paid roles in due course. Good luck!

How big is big, if it’s a 50% pay cut (for example) you might find it difficult to get back to your prior pay level even when moving forwards as companies tend to ask what is your current package.

I would apply and interview and see if I can negotiate the gap to an acceptable level.