Dilemma - do I leave permanent job for 6 month contract

~Beanie~

I've just done exactly the same. Given up a permanent job (which I hated) for a fixed-term contract one. Its more money and in a place I had been wanting to work for years. I could regret it come June when my contract ends but I see it as a foot in the door and a chance to prove myself. Plus, I get put on their internal redeployment list now so will be considered for internal vacancies that come up and so could get another job in a different office with the same company.

PurplePow

I'm also doing the same thing. Had a job interview didn't get offered the permanent position but the fixed term one.

I'm giving up a job where, although I like where I work and the people I work with, I'm just not too keen on the job I do.

New job will be better paid job and something I like the sound of too. It's fixed term for a year but they said they're very keen to try and get this made permanent. I'd only regret it if I didn't take the risk!

DCFC79

Id do it, your unhappy and underpaid compared to similar roles with other companies. Only live once. The other person who pipped you to the job you applied for could leave after 4 months.

Sycorax

Go for it, maternity leave has a habit of being extended or turning into a resignation. It also gives you time to make your mark and jump up and down in front of the decision makers. Your also 'on the ground' if other perm positions come up.

As others have said, you shouldn't have any debt at all if you're both working and have no rent or mortgage, get rid of it and keep it got rid of...

Gardenqueen

I'm someone who always plays safe and follows their head rather than their heart. I so wish i could take risks and follow my heart and am so envious of people that do because things usually work out for the best in their favour. My friend left her job for a six month contract, they took her on and she's never looked back. If you are brave enough to take that leap of faith, go for it and enjoy.

ditzyat50

lea wrote: »

Hi there

So, what do I do?! Do I take a risk and accept the 6 month contract, in the hope that once I get my foot in the door either something else internally comes up at the end of this period, or that the person on maternity leave decides not to return But run the risk of having no job at the end of the contract!?
Or...stay where I am, unhappy, but in permanent employment...

Very confused! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Lea

I think that if you don't go for it you will look back on your life and wonder "what if". Yes it's a chance but if you don't take a chance how can your life change? And if you do end up with no job at the end of the contract you will have personal satisfaction of knowing you made the effort to improve your life. Then just take things from there. Personally I think you should go for it.

fed_up_and_stressed

Aother vote here to go for the contract job you think you'll enjoy life is too short to be stuck 8hrs a day in a job you hate.

pawsies

Plus there's nothing to stop you applying for jobs before the 6 months is up 'just in case'.

LittleMax

I've just done similar ... given up two job share posts for a 6 month fixed term full time contract. This was due to finish at end of Jan, they are pleased with me and have extended my contract until end of March. I doubt it will be extended again into next financial year, but it has given me longer to find another full time role, and I have been a lot happier since August. I'd say go for it!

lea

Thanks everyone for all your replies!

I have decided to take the plunge and go for the 6 month contract.
I figure I would probably regret not giving it a go and always wonder 'what if' if I didn't go for it.

Fingers crossed I'll still be saying that in 6 months time!

Thanks again!!

Lea