Almost Started a New Job

I applied for a program coordinator position at a non-profit organization that is literally 4 blocks from my house. I submitted my application, then contacted the HR director via LinkedIn to introduce myself and make sure she received my application. I honestly think it was a great move to director her to see what I’m about.

I went to the interview on a Wednesday. I prepped the night before by brushing up on key facts about the organization and going over what I would say about myself. I could tell they were impressed. They even mentioned that they just posted a volunteer coordinator position that they think I would be qualified for, if I was interested. I received a call the next day asking my permission to contact my current supervisor. I really appreciated that they asked me first because she wasn’t aware that I was looking into this new position. I had a quick chat with her about expecting their call and to my surprise was extremely supportive.

I got a call on Friday that I didn't get the program coordinator position, but they wanted me to come in for interview for the volunteer coordinator position the following Tuesday. I went not feeling completely in love with the position, but after hearing more about it I was interested. I received a call Wednesday saying that they wanted to offer me a position, but it wasn't going to be what I was expecting. They wanted to offer me the first position because their original choice declined. I accepted and we set my start date for 2/25/13.

I was excited, but didn't want to tell my employer yet because I wanted to live off of the high and wasn't ready to deal with everyone knowing I was leaving, wrapping up loose ends and answering questions. My plan was to wait until Monday to give my two weeks notice.

I received a little feedback about being second choice, but I didn’t care, I was just happy to have an offer and the chance to move one step closer to my career goals. The organization has a fairly good reputation for being a great non-profit to work for with exceptional benefits and I could walk to work. I was excited!

Friday I received a call from the HR director saying that she hated to tell me, but the position was being placed on hold for a month while the executives reviewed whether they actually needed the position. I was disappointed, but still had hope that they would realize they needed it. I was also really grateful that I hadn't put in my 2 weeks yet and that they told me this lovely info before I was actually in the position.

I followed up this Monday, the day I was supposed to start, and got the final answer. They have decided to shift responsibilities around among the current staff.

I noticed something really odd after I was offered the position. I was feeling really sentimental and attached to my current place of employment. I've spent three years learning about the trucking industry  and realized it was probably something I would never dabble in again. The day after I was offered the position my department had a mini field trip to the new coffee shop across the street and it hit me that I was going to be leaving these people, and that I actually really do like them. I am in no way against change. I love it, so my sights were set on the new experiences. After all of this I’m okay where I’m at. Thankfully I don’t wake up dreading work and my job allows a lot of flexibility. 

I change my mind daily about whether I should keep looking or just take advantage of the comfort and flexibility my job offers as I finish my masters degree and focus on Arriba Latinas, a mentoring program I’m building with two other amazing ladies.