Career decision

[johnnydawg68]

I'm interviewing for a couple of jobs next week and while I don't have an offer yet for either obviously, I'm thinking ahead to what to do if I do get both offers. Here's the issue:

1) Position #1 will pay a good wage, but salary only - no commission or bonus. It's a government job which means ridiculous benefits, including a *gasp* PENSION PLAN. Now I'm 43 with nothing saved for retirement. So this is pretty huge. The paid time off is ridiculous too which is a big deal to me. And it will be very stable.

2) Position #2 will potentially pay a higher base salary AND have a commission plan which could take me back to a significantly higher income, but the benefits won't be as good, nor will it be as stable long term. Doesn't mean it's necessarily unstable, but it's private sector vs public sector so no comparison on that.

Interested in how you would approach this if it were you.

 

[Alio]

Hmmm

Which job has the fittest receptionist? I'm pretty sure that's how you choose bro.

Fingers crossed J-Dogg.

 

[TheFinnFan]

go for 1. better be safe

 

[tommye]

think you should go with option one. With the greatest of respect, you're heading towards middle age(as am i) and need to get yourself a comfortable retirement sorted, while you're still able. Gives you something to look forward to when the working days are done. Good luck to you with the interviews. GO DAWG!!

 

[bluejock]

I'm just shocked you're 43.

Have you got any dependants? If not, go for 2, even if it doesn't last for the rest of your working careeer, it'll still put you in a good position to move into a settled position after you've had a few more years of earning wedge.

 

[johnnydawg68]

Hmmm

Which job has the fittest receptionist? I'm pretty sure that's how you choose bro.

Fingers crossed J-Dogg.

Haha. Option #1 does have way more employees, so more potential for hooking up for sure. Don't think I haven't though about it.

 

[EFC NY]

get on the Obama gravy train if you can.

 

[johnnydawg68]

I'm just shocked you're 43.

Have you got any dependants? If not, go for 2, even if it doesn't last for the rest of your working careeer, it'll still put you in a good position to move into a settled position after you've had a few more years of earning wedge.

The exterior has held up pretty well, but I feel 80 sometimes lol.

You make a good point there, except I'm not great at saving money. I've had a tendency to spend what I make so the pension plan is very attractive. And I love my time off. But your points are things I'm considering as well.

 

[Alio]

Haha. Option #1 does have way more employees, so more potential for hooking up for sure. Don't think I haven't though about it.

You wouldn't be the J-Dawg we all love and wish to be (with) if you didn't

Option 1 sounds the ticket

 

[Dom1878]

Id go for 2 to be honest. If you are worried about pension schemes then seek advice from someone about it, because they will have a better idea of which sector is best. Plus if you do earn a higher salary - then any comission you get just put it straight into an ISA account or a savings account.

 

[roydo]

Is the public sector in the US as cushy/under threat, (depending on your view), as it is in the UK? Is the pension offered in #1 a 401k, with big employer payments in? If the choice was in the UK, then no argument, go #1. Like BJ says though, depends on personal life really.

 

[tommye]

where is the cheese on toast option? Ffs dawg!!

 

[johnnydawg68]

Is the public sector in the US as cushy/under threat, (depending on your view), as it is in the UK? Is the pension offered in #1 a 401k, with big employer payments in? If the choice was in the UK, then no argument, go #1. Like BJ says though, depends on personal life really.

They have a 401k and a true pension plan (no contribution from the employee). Fully vests after 5 years....need to find out how long/what age you can retire though (there may be a minimum age).

 

[bluejock]

The exterior has held up pretty well, but I feel 80 sometimes lol.

You make a good point there, except I'm not great at saving money. I've had a tendency to spend what I make so the pension plan is very attractive. And I love my time off. But your points are things I'm considering as well.

Set yourself up a private pension. Don't wanna sound depressing but this might be your last shot at seriously big bucks.

I'm one of life's risk takers though. I left my safe government employment, took a £5k cut in basic salary for the chance to make a big day rate when out on a job.

 

[johnnydawg68]

Set yourself up a private pension. Don't wanna sound depressing but this might be your last shot at seriously big bucks.

I'm one of life's risk takers though. I left my safe government employment, took a £5k cut in basic salary for the chance to make a big day rate when out on a job.

Something I'm thinking about as well...