Would you take a pay cut...

[OceanPrincess]

Thanks for all the replies ladies. Definitely lots of things to think about...

I think a main constraint for me would be remaining with my current employer. They are a large corporation and there are lots of opportunities to move sideways, its just that the sideways move I'm thinking of would involve a pay cut.

So I'd still have my annual leave, sick leave, LSL accruing... and I'd still have access to the great flexible work policies and support for part time work that my employer has.

If I do decide to do some study in this new field I am looking at (HR) then I would probably do that part-time, while continuing to work in my current job. But at the same time, if I can obtain an entry-level (or higher) position in HR within my current organisation, then I'd like to just apply for it and see how I go.

There are a lot of secondments being offered at the moment - that'd be ideal I think, as I could try the area out and then if I decide its not for me, I can come back to this position after 6 or 12 months.

This rang so true too...

I think the most important thing when you have a family and are working is for you to get something out of your work as an individual (and not just money). After all, it is time away from your family and as a mother it can be hard to have an identity outside of being mum, I think if you're working then it is ideal if you can get some personal fulfillment out of what you do.

I just don't feel excited and happy about being here. I want something that I'm excited about getting out of bed at o-dark-thirty as DH calls it for... something that motivates me to be here and to contribute.

The only annoying thing is that I can't get my hands on how much of a pay cut it will be until I actually apply for a role and find out what the pay is from the hiring manager. I know my job grade and what my salary is, but I can only imagine what the salary for the lower job grades would be, as it isn't published anywhere... so its a bit hard to work out a budget or anything like that.

I guess one way to do it would be to work out what the absolute MINIMUM wage that I need would be and take it from there. If the role doesn't pay enough to meet our budget, then I don't accept it.

[Miss E]

I guess one way to do it would be to work out what the absolute MINIMUM wage that I need would be and take it from there. If the role doesn't pay enough to meet our budget, then I don't accept it.

Good idea. It sound to me like you know what you need to do. At the end of the day, there is nothing wrong with applying for a position and then declining the offer if it doesn't suit you. Interviews aren't just about the employer checking you out for the position, they're also about you checking out the position and accessing it's suitability for you - it's a two way street. I know it's probably a bit different when you already work for the company, but I tend to think this still applies.

A secondment would be a great way of dipping your foot in the water and seeing if it is for you. GL whichever way you decide to go.

[diva det]

truthfully i wouldnt- at the moment
i would sit tight and rake in the bucks and after you know your family is finished, then i would think about starting again. at the moment you know what you job is about, no stress, no hassles and although it bores you to tears, its guaranteed $$$ and you can do you job and it works with your family
a new job is the unknown and although that is the exciting part of it, at the moment i would be hesitant to start a new career path until your baby making days are done. that way you have more chance to move up quicker as there is no stop and start with Mat leave. also your job has all your entitlements accured and with a young family there are also so handy to have up your sleeve!!

i would seriously just bide your time where you are at the moment!
your time to shine will come!!!
bucks are the goal at the moment