Before You Find a Job, Should You Lower Your Standards First?

Taking a job lower than your standards is hard to swallow if you're used to being higher on the corporate ladder. With the current economy the way it is, more entry-level, lower level jobs and part-time jobs are opening up. The question many job seekers are asking themselves is should I take the lower level job just to stay employed.
On the surface it’s something to be embarrassed about. Many things in life drive us to make tough choices, and the lower level job results from one of the situations.

• Economic conditions
• Financial situations
• Career changes
• Lifestyle changes

A lower level position is good if you know how to use it toward your long-term plans. Evaluate the lower level job position carefully before accepting it. Figure out how the job description will help you achieve your goals. Take those answers and convince the employer of hiring you. Taking a job just to stay employed is not a good idea because it’s not going to take you places; it’s going to keep you where you are.
Before you find a job and accept the lower level position consider the following:

• Location. Lower jobs are usually accepted because it’s close to where they live. Moving is hard for families and you may not want to leave because of sentimental value.
• Cost of living. Getting a job in a big city doesn't mean it's the best idea financially. Factor in monthly rent, food, gas, utilities and other expenses to see if the deal is worth it. 
• Taxes. Everyone pays federal income tax. Most states have state income tax, but the few that doesn’t get their money through taxing other things. States also have county, city, property and grocery tax. Make sure the money can cover all this with some extra remaining.
• Bonuses. Some companies offer less money but make up for it with bonuses or an incentive. Evaluate bonuses to see if making more money is better than taking less money with a bonus or incentive attached.
• The company. The company may offer more money, but the atmosphere is not friendly. Working under miserable conditions and begging for a check you're supposed to receive isn't worth it because the pay is better. You'll quit first.
• Long-term goals. Lower jobs are great if it helps you reach long-term goals. 

It’s a sad reality. Lower level jobs are in abundance. While we are going to strive for the highest achievement curve balls come at us at any moment. Many job seekers must suck up their pride and accept something lower than they're used to. A lower level job isn't the sign of a downward spiral but an alternative way to move a career forward. Look at it as a detour. Detours are an alternate route taken to bring you back to the right track. The lower level job is a detour that is taking your career back on the right track.  Contact us for more information on finding a job.