I'm thinking about switching jobs, but obviously, don't want to lose my current one by allowing my current employer to know that I'm looking. If I do apply for another job, does the company I apply to have any obligations to keep my submission for employment under wraps? My current employer is heavily involved in the community, so I'm afraid that they might know someone from the company that I'm interested in. I'm paranoid by nature, so am I always thinking about worst case scenario. Am I crazy to think that potential employers (HR and/or nosy passerby) would name drop applicants to friends/potential powerful ally or customer they have from said applicants current place of employment? Any help/advice/suggestions would be so greatly appreciated.
On every job application that I have ever seen, there is usually a section that says "May we contact your current employer?". (possibly so that your current job wont be jeopardized by inquiries in case you dont get the one you are applying for) Of course, that might be a trick question. Ive never said no.
The more I think about it, the last couple of jobs were offered to me before I had to fill out an actual application. The job before that, I was out of work. One more question, if you guys were to lose about $18,000, but were to gain about 20k in annual salary, is that worth the jump? Also, would having to drive an additional 30m to work factor into the decision? Thanks again in advance.
Not sure I understand the question... are you going to lose $ 18,000 worth of stock ptiosn or something? Also, believe it our not, unless your current employer is a completely vindicate a-hole, the fact that you are lloking for other work may get you a raise. That being said it is better to be discreet and I agree with you being careful. There is a difference between cautious and paranoid. As far as the drive goes, if it's 30 miles in Houston, that could equal an hour or more both ways. Just factor that in to your decision. Maybe the new company coudl give you a bit more money for your "daily sacrifice". Everything is negotiable.
Not sure I understand the question... are you going to lose $ 18,000 worth of stock options or something? Also, believe it our not, unless your current employer is a completely vindicate a-hole, the fact that you are lloking for other work may get you a raise. That being said it is better to be discreet and I agree with you being careful. There is a difference between cautious and paranoid. As far as the drive goes, if it's 30 miles in Houston, that could equal an hour or more both ways. Just factor that in to your decision. Maybe the new company coudl give you a bit more money for your "daily sacrifice". Everything is negotiable.
crap, double post... rookie move from a cagey verteran... too much coffee... my apologies to the bandwidth lords.
Yes, My 401K to be exact. I'm only 60% vested. But I figure, I'm young, so this sacrifice is small compared to a potentially huge oppurtunity. The driving thing sorta bothers me as well. It's downtown, and I'd have to battle 59N every single day. But it's a 20k pay increase!
Coma, I'd sacrifice the 401(k) money. The pay increase not only pays you more now, but sets your value higher for the future (not that its impossible you'll have to face a pay cut). As for the driving, does 30m mean 30 miles or 30 minutes? Either way, I personally am not willing to make that sacrifice. I'm 20 minutes from work (in good traffic) and thinking about finding some place closer.
JV, It takes me about 15m to get to work now, 5m without traffic. I'd be coming from Stafford into downtown, so I figure 30m. Interesting to hear that you wouldn't take the jump based on the drive itself. I HATE traffic myself. Heck, I'd drive an extra mile around if it meant I didn't have to be stuck in traffic.. But once again, an additional $1500 after taxes per month has be blinded right now. I appreciate the input!
Coma, I'd check the terms of your 401K to be sure... But, vesting only applies to any employer contributions. (In otherwords, employer match or other contribution). Anything that you put in (as in a deduction from your paycheck) is yours, and can be rolled into an IRA or a new 401K at the other employer. Since most employers match contributions up to 2-4 percent of your salary, and total contributions can't exceed a certain amount (19K/yr or 20% of salary?), and you haven't worked long enough to be fully vested, I'll bet most of that money is yours. You'll get everything you put in, and 60% of the employer contribution, along with all proceeds (or losses) from that portion of the 401K. If you've been working for the company only a few years and they've put enough into your 401K that 40% of the matching funds is $18K, I would say stay with them. OR, leave them and let me know where to send an application.
That certainly could happen, but think about it from the company's stand point. Even if they decide to give you that raise that will be in their minds. Next time the company is making changes, who do you thimk will likely be the first to be cut? If there is a person looked at for a promotion, you will likely be the last choice. I was put in that position and we passed a guy up b/c we just weren't certain he would stay or how loyal he was. I would be very weary of taking a counter offer.
Ohhhh. Excellent point. Thanks. dcsports - Yes, 18k comes from the employer match. I've been here for awhile, and they match a higher percentage than most.
