Hello!
I'm looking for some input on a potential new job dilemma.
I have spent the last 7 years working as an administrator in a small non-academic department at a University. It has been a good job overall and I have a great boss.
I believe I will be offered a position within a very large academic department at the same University (it is in a Dean's office for those of you in academia). The move will be lateral with about the same pay and the same benefits such as healthcare etc.
I believe I will find the actual work in the new position more interesting and impactful but I have a couple of hesitations. I'm a little concerned about my potential new supervisor. She comes across as quite stern. During the interview I asked how she would describe her management style, she said firm but fair. I also have a small concern that she might be the type with will dump work on her "assistant" and not offer much support.
In my current role, I work a pretty standard 8-5 day however if I ever need to leave early, run an errand, take my mom to the doctor, take my dog to the vet, it is absolutely no problem at all. My boss does not mind and actually encourages me to work from home or leave early on Fridays (of course I never abuse this). I'm not sure if the new boss would be as flexible. This is actually something that would significantly impact my work happiness. Would it be appropriate for me to ask her about this once I receive an offer? If so, how do I ask without sounding like a slacker?
The new position is much more visible within the University, this is both good and bad. Often I wonder why I'm doing the things I do in my current role because no one seems to much care (very small department, focused on something very niche). However, my boss is very motivated and enthusiastic so that has helped maintain some motivation over the years. I believe I would immediately feel my contributions were making a difference in the new role. I would also work with many more people and have better opportunities for building a good network (not that I'm looking for climbing the corporate ladder but I like the idea of being part of a bigger team).
TLDR: I'm burnt out in my current position although I have a great boss and some flexibility with work hours. I have an opportunity for a new position that would likely be more interesting however I'm concerned about the boss's management style and potentially losing flexibility that I have now. Is appropriate to meet with the potential new boss after I receive an offer (and before accepting) to try and learn more? How do I ask these kinds of questions?