My best friend, Brooke, graduated college in the Spring of 2024. She pursued graphic design and art all throughout college, and was very passionate about her work. Since graduating, she has been freelancing at her father’s marketing firm for some graphic design work. Just last week, she was offered a full time, salaried job with the company. However, the job is as a marketing coordinator, something she has no experience in or passion for.
Brooke came to me and our other friend to ask for advice. The conversation was long, and there were many pros and cons. If she took the job, she would be making a steady income, enough to move out of her parents house and back to Portland. However, she would also be signing a contract for a job that she knows she would not love, and does not know if she will thrive in.
Ultimately, Brooke decided to take the job. The autonomy that comes from a steady paycheck and benefits is worth more than the stress of looking for a job that may not even be as autonomous. She does like the company environment, but she really took the job because of the compensation. She is a young woman who wants to travel, and as a remote job, it gives her the full freedom. The compensation, in her opinion, gives her the freedom to explore. I think this story is so important, especially from a hiring managers perspective. Especially if someone has multiple options, the salary offer may make or break a decision.