Should I stay in my job or look for something else?

Question

So - I graduated college with a bachelor's degree about 2 years ago. Since then I have had multiple jobs, but none that I really enjoy. Right now I have been in my current job for 3 months and I'm working about 10-12 hours a day and making a little over $20,000/yr (it's salary, not hourly). I just constantly feel stressed out, and though I work for a reputable nonprofit organization - i can't help but think my time would be better spent elsewhere.

I am also applying for a Master's degree in September, so I'm looking for something to hold me over until then.

Should I stay, working like a dog and making nothing - or find something else that might be able to earn enough to get me out of debt?

All input is appreciated! Thanks!!

Answer 1

First, no job is worth your health. Second, you might want to look into temping. Depending on your skills, education, etc. you could probably make more (I was making $16.50/hour). Granted, I was paying for my health insurance, but many Temp agencies do offer some sort of coverage with a small monthly premium.

Temping will also give you exposure to different jobs and working environments. And, a lot of companies do hire temporary workers full time.

Just a suggestion.

P.S. Good idea going back for your Master's and good luck to whatever direction you take.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, that is the downside of working for a nonprofit company: long hours, tons of work and low pay. However, depending on the nonprofit company and what it stands for many people feel pride in their work knowing they are helping others less fortunate which more than makes up for the long hours. If I were you I'd stay put. It won't look good on future resumes if you're doing a lot of job hopping and never really giving any place more than just a few months of your time. Employers looking to hire someone for the long term may shy away thinking that you just won't be dedicated enough to stick around. It costs them money to train you on top of your salary and it usually takes at least 3 months to get someone fully trained.

Answer 3

1. You didn't say what your degree was in.
2. Non-profit organizations pay lower wages/salaries.
3. Get a job with a government contractor (e.g. Lockheed Martin) and let them pay for classes.
4. Know that no place is perfect and only a small percentage truely love what they are doing and would do it for no money.
5. Do research on what you like to do and where you think you'd might like to do it.
6. I'd say find something else paying more money -- that salary is to low for a B.S. degree (in any field).

Answer 4

Are you living beyond your means at all? I would say if you like your job and enjoy the people, talk to your boss about a raise, even it means taking on more responsibility. Or you can post your resume on Monster or other sites like that and shoot for something that may pay better. I don't know what you do, so I can't really say whats good pay.

Answer 5

You're working crazy hours and you're not making enough to compensate. If you were not working those hours and making what you're making, then i'd say maybe stick with it until you get your Master's. You only live once..and it seems as if you're working your life away. I was in the same position. I finally got out and found something better. You're educated, so I am sure it won't take long for you to find something better. This is just my opinion. You need to sit down and really figure out what you want to do in the end. Good luck on your endeavours :)

Answer 6

Keep working but look for something you think you'd like better. One, it keeps money in your pocket. Two, it keeps gaps from appearing on your resume (quitting a job without another job lined up is a sure turn-off to potential employers who may doubt your maturity or stability)

And when you find a new job, give your old job the courtesy of 2 weeks notice (that shows the new employer you're mature enough to wrap up affairs & won't potentially leave the new employer in a lurch down the road)

Answer 7

Even with a college degree, several job changes and short term employment look really bad on your resume. Employer's are less likely to hire you if they think you will only stay with the company for a short time. You may try working thru a temp agency until you finnish school, that way it doesn't look as bad when to quit to take a permanent job, and you are employed thru the temp agency, so even tho you work several places, it will appear as continuos employment with one company.

Answer 8

Working for a non-profit is not about making money. It is about having a love for what your organization is accomplishing. If you don't feel that, you should get out.

You can probably find lots of jobs that pay the same for which you only have to work 40 hrs/week.

Find a new job first!

Answer 9

You are very educated and deserve a better pay. Maybe your job is a good one but I just can't get over the pay that you are receiveing! Look for something else asap and if you have the opportunity to do your master's that's great!

Answer 10

im only 15 and ive only had one job as a chasier at the waterslides in coeur d' alene...haha...but in my opinion...if yer working salary not hourly then tell yer boss u want fewer hours...dont work 10-12 hours work like 7-9 or sumthing...tlk to yer boss about it...and in the mean time take yer time while u look for another job...dont jump into another job or anything but take yer time and really LOOK for something u will injoy and that pays u better...