I'm currently a consultant. My current assignment is asking me to consider joining the company as an employee. The salary offer is slightly less than my consulting rate (as would be normally expect), and the benefits suck (gone are the days of good benefits). I like the work, the people, the company. Under normal circumstances it would be a "deal". But, they need a definitive answer this week - because if I dont join, they'll likely lay-me-off during the slow holiday season and hire someone else. Sucky, but thats the breaks...

But...

My previous employer called me. They had to let me go because they were near bankruptcy. They've just been bought out, and would like to have me come on-board there. They're even offering a very attractive salary offer, same-lame-benefits. I liked the ppl there, the job, the work... The building is only 3miles from my ratty apartment. Whats the hitch?

Its a "Probably" offer. Its not on ink as yet. It may take a few weeks for it to become ink, and no garuntee that it will be a real-deal. I know them well enough to accept that they're telling me this in good-faith, and that they're on the level.


So... what would you do?

1. Convert at the current job, wait and see if #2 is reality then jump ship?

2. Dont convert to employee, take the layoff risk as a consultant and see where things go?

3. Convert to current job with no regrets?

I was ignorantly leaning towards #3, and discussed this with my father who is a long time "loyalty" guy. He said 'to heII with loyalty - take the money and jump if its for real'.

I dont like that mentality, but what he says makes practical sense.

What do you think? Anyone with similar situations? Thoughts?

-Mike

Good luck! Sounds like what I went through. Except now They want to run adds. Week out of work. Good luck!

OK so the previous company went bankrupt once before? Ask any driver that has been out awhile what happend to burlington motor carriers. They are no longer around after being sold 5 DIFFERENT times, I would look for a better postion somewhere else. If you are good at your skill, someone wil pay your worth

It sounds like you really don't want to be 'tied' to a company in a salaried position. It seems like you're taking the conservative route...or maybe I'm misreading something?

WOW sounds like a tough decision!! I am one to go with the job that is the "sure bet"
If its not in ink yet, what are you going to do if that job doesn't come through? You could always take the employee job and wait for the other one?
WOW I think you are getting messed over any way you look at it!!
Good luck

I know this sound's like what most people would say to you, go with what your just feel's right.

In all honest if the current company is going to go under and your gonna lose your job any way's then why not take a risk and jump ship. That's if I read that part right, sorry if I didn't.

Your best bet is just to follow what your heart says and what feels right over all to you.

Surely if taking less pay and coverage is not what your looking for right now, then go for the wait it out and get layed off and you could always before that time keep looking for something else before you are layed off that is.

Bottom line best of luck to you and your choice, I'm sure you'll make the right choice in the end.

Hi Mike.

As you know, a maybe is really just a good looking "no" until it is a yes. Is the old company financially stable now? I know you've probably heard it before, but I would never leave one job before finding another. And a maybe isn't a new one--it's a could be new one. If you enjoy consulting, and if the company you are with now lays you off, can you consult for others? Have you considered working for the current company but consulting part time or would you be dealing with non-competition agreements? I wish you luck, but it sounds like you have some options--some better than others, but options nonetheless.

Good luck Mike.

Drew

good luck mike.

I'm wondering if you take the "probably a" job with your old company, how stable is the company that bought them. Could they go under in a year or two? That's happened in our area a few times.

Wow. I personally agree with your father. What is loyalty in a workplace anyways? It is about you feeling comfortable where you make your money. Loyalty can come when they are sincere with your concerns. If work is just a place to make money, then do what you have to do to make that money. If you are worth more, then go get more. You only settle when you are willing to.

Research the companies that are interested in you. The worst thing that can happen is you join a company and get laid off in a few months. Stuff like that happens a lot.

Consulting seems the best option for a professional in a computer field (I am assuming), until you find the one true love (I mean company )

My opinion for what its is worth (the same amount you paid for it) is:

Personnaly I would discuss your current offer with your previous employer. Tell them you need to make a decision this week and if they want to hire you...You'll need to have the offer in writing by X Date.

If they are unable or willing to do that! Accept the position where you are at currently and don't look back!

Good luck