My job hunt has grown a specific new detail.

[bertha katzenengel]

I'm still looking for a new job. But the other day, I had a thought.

I work for a number of attorneys; Quincilla's el jefe. I thought: Maybe I can put up with Quincilla's shit better if I get a really big raise. And a parking spot in the building.

Yesterday I had a talk with the personnel director about these things. She's known I've been unhappy for a long time. She and I have had many talks -- I've told her the crap that goes on, then that "things are getting better;" this has gone in cycles.

But yesterday the talk went this way, in short:

me: I have decided that unless something drastic changes I am leaving the firm.

she: I'll hate to see you go, I need you, but I'm not surprised. What would be the drastic change?

me: I will have to have a fifteen percent raise and a parking spot downstairs.

she: No way you can get a parking spot, but I can talk to Hilda (the CHRO*) about the raise, and about how hard it will be to replace you.

I was shocked to hear that she would ask Hilda to consider the raise. My firm pays legal secretaries a very low wage compared to other LS's in WDC.

But after a 45 minute conversation, my personnel director confirmed for me, and I finally accepted, what I already knew: A couple of paychecks after the raise, and I would realize that more money does NOT make it easier to work for Quincilla.

It's not worth it. I have high blood pressure and am easily stressed to the point of needing a calming pill or to leave the office early. I can't take it. My health -- body and spirit -- are more important than money.

So the big decision is finally made and I have said it aloud to the personnel director: as soon as I have a new job, I will give you two weeks' notice.

I am LEAVING the firm from hell. :woohoo:

:rant: thank you for listening.

* Chief Human Resources Orifice

[CBHagman]

1. I hope you find that good new job.

Best wishes, BK. And take care of yourself!

[bertha katzenengel]

2. Thanks, CB. I'm doing my best on all fronts.

:7

[aquaman]

3. I had a similar situation happen to me....

I was going to leave a job that I was unhappy with. The powers that be offered me a significant raise to stay, I did. Truly a big mistake. I still hated my job and the place, but my check was bigger, big fucking deal. Money does not equate to happiness. I learned a valuable lesson. Oh, by the way, I got the hell out of there and make more money at my new job which I love. Ironic it is.

[bertha katzenengel]

10. learning the hard way sux - i've done it most of my life

Fortunately I have an honest personnel director who said "I don't know who on earth will work for that woman, but you GO. Take care of yourself." And my beloved, who is very supportive.

Im so glad you're digging the new job. :bounce:

[Droopy]

4. You're right, bertha

Doing something for a living that's at least mildly agreeable, let alone that you love, will do wonders for your outlook on life and may even extend your life. I wish you luck on the job hunt. Here's to new beginnings :toast:

[bertha katzenengel]

8. What a sweetheart.

Thanks, T. :toast:

[DS1]

5. Can I offer my two cents?

No? Fine, here they are anyway.

F that parking crap, park where you can, don't bitch or complain about it, it's PURE politics.

Avoid it.

Don't even bring it up, it's nothing but trouble.

Park as far away as you can.

[bertha katzenengel]

7. Good lord, no shit, DS1.

I threw the parking in because I knew it was a joke. It actually costs MORE to park in the building than in the hotel where I now park just 2 blocks away.

It was my way of telling the personnel director, "the parking priorities are ridiculous." New attorneys always get parking. So do new non-attorney professionals. There have been staff members on the "waiting list" for parking for more than ten years. :eyes:

I'm not even asking about parking as a perq when i interview. I'm only asking "is there on-site parking and how much is it?" If there's no on-site, I'll find my own and walk.

I absolutely DIG your sig photo. That scene scared the shit outta me.

[radwriter0555]

9. You should have taken the raise AND looked for a new job....

:)

Without telling them.

[Peter Frank]

6. I feel like breaking into the Johny Paycheck song...

"Take this job and shove it -- I ain't workin' here no more..."

I went into business for myself 18 mos ago. I don't make six figures, but a price can't be put on the freedom I enjoy.

Enjoy your future Bertha. :)

[bertha katzenengel]

11. Freedom, happiness are more important than anything, Peter, damned right.

This movie quote has run through my head for months as I came to terms with the fact that i had to make a change or wind up in the hospital: *

GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING. :headbang:

*medical or mental... coulda been either one. ;)

[RevCheesehead]

12. Bertha, you deserve to be happy and stress-free.

Isn't this the same job that's monitoring your on-line activities during the day? That's preventing you from posting on DU during the week? That alone should be enough for you to seek something else. But if you're truly miserable, money isn't going to change that. A new environment, where you can grow and flourish, and maybe find a bit of happiness and worth is far more important.

Best wishes, and I sincerely hope something opens up for you. :hug:

[bertha katzenengel]

13. Thanks, Rev.

I'm feeling pretty good today. Nervous about interviews, especially about dressing for them, but I feel good.

And the new hair color is nice. :blush: