Author Topic: Job Loyalty & Dream Job  (Read 1733 times)

digito

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Job Loyalty & Dream Job
« on: October 25, 2015, 10:12:01 AM »
Hello everyone! I have a lot of anxiety about a job I am applying for today. I've been at my current workplace for ~4 years, and while it's generally good, my "dream job" was posted with another company this week, and I feel like I have to go for it. This is one of those "first world problems" type threads, so feel free to stop reading here if that annoys you ;)

So, I am anxious about 2 aspects of applying for the "dream job": the possibility that I'll have to quit my current job, and the fact that I've had my hopes up for this new job before it was even posted and I likely won't actually get it.

First, I am overly loyal to my employer; I've always worked for small companies, and endeavored to be that "linchpin" employee. Right now, it is paying off - I enjoy my job, and my contributions are recognized and appreciated. I am on track to have more of a "manager" role when that becomes necessary. The main downsides are a fixed 8am to 5pm schedule, and general fatigue with the work. The pluses include a good community of coworkers who I enjoy being around, and a seemingly stable position with decent pay. If I am able to wrangle an offer after applying for this new job, it will be incredibly difficult to leave - I've been telling my boss for years that none of us should be essential to the business, but I think it would at a minimum slow down their success for a few months if I left now.

Second, I've been waiting for this dream job to be posted for about a year; I know the competition will be stiff, and I will try to stand out as best as I can, but somehow I've put a lot of pressure on this exact opportunity working out, and I know it's no guarantee. The position is a lot more flexible (work at home/wherever you want, work around your schedule). I really want it. It's the kind of job that would make me less intent on FIRE, and happier to work past FI. I guess the worst case scenario is I don't get an interview, I am bummed and disappointed in myself for a few months, and life goes on at my current job.

I'm not quite sure what I am hoping for from you, this awesome community; I know you all could coach me on my job loyalty being a losing proposition for me as an employee. I know I shouldn't put all of my career hopes into one job posting. I guess I am wondering, have you had similar dilemma in your career? Do you have any awesome advice for my situation? Thanks in advance for anything you can say to help ease my anxiety!
« Last Edit: October 25, 2015, 10:22:07 AM by digito »

MDM

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Re: Job Loyalty & Dream Job
« Reply #1 on: October 25, 2015, 10:44:06 AM »
...I am overly loyal to my employer....
If I...leave...it would...slow down their success for [merely] a few months....

...I guess the worst case scenario is I don't get an interview, I am bummed and disappointed in myself for a few months, and life goes on at my current job.

Really can't improve on your own advice to your self. :)