should i switch?

Question

I am 19, I do sales and I make $10 an hour, plus commision, about $40 a day. Unfortunately, I live 30 miles away, and I drive a large SUV, I spend about $100 on gas weekly. I like the job, but I have to be there every morning at 7 a.m, its kind of taken over my life. I spend about 1 and a half hours commuting everyday because of heavy traffic. I am always in the top bracket of sales, if not number 1, and I am very consistent. I can sell anything, even ice cubes to an eskimo.

I am moving out on my own in the next few weeks. I had a certain amount of money made into my budget, the company is expanding, and the sales might get dry, and I might become broke.

I was up for a managing job, against a 22, and 21 year old who have been here longer. The married 22 year old got it, and she deserved it.

Should I ask for a rasie, I am very dependable, and consistent?? Or should I look for a better paying job closer to where I live??

Answer 1

It sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders. ASk for a rasie. It can't hurt. If you find that you can't afford it after you move, then look for something closer to home. Or how about moving closer to work? That driving back and forth can really be a drain.

Answer 2

Some options:
1. Find a new job. It never hurts to look. Just don't quit one job until you have another.
2. Purchase a different vehicle.
3. Move closer to your job.
4. Approach your boss for a raise under the guise that you are moving out and feel you may need more income. At least then you don't look like you're just digging for gold flat out asking for a raise.

Another thing - plan for emergencies. Be sure to have at least enough money to pay for 3 mos. worth of expenses in your bank account. Don't forget that SOMETHING unexpected will always come up, so budget accordingly.

Answer 3

If you are relatively debt free, you should be able to make it. I would only ask for a raise if:

1.You have been there a long time (2 years or more)
2. Have other job prospects

You might look for a closer apartment if you want to stay with the company.

Keep your eyes out for other jobs, in sales you can go anywhere, but stay where you are until you have a good plan in place.

Answer 4

I think you shouldn't switch. From what I read, looks like you really like your job and enjoy it... I think the best thing to do is to move closer.
On the salary part, I think that salary rises should be based on merit and distance, age, etc. are not merit-related.. then if you are asking for it, go with the hard data on why you deserve it rather on why you need it.
Good luck.