Remember when I mentioned I applied for a job that would increase my work hours threefold? Well this week I was offered the position, to start in 2 weeks time. I accepted happily and my boss started the process to transfer me across. While she was busy doing her part, I was talking with my new boss to confirm a few things like my hours and pay rate. You know the most important parts of my new job.
The job was advertised as a full-time position, 9am-5pm, 5 days a week. I cant manage that and I checked before I applied that they would accept part time applicants. Obviously, they said yes as they offered me the position. In the interview I asked them what they expected from me as part time hours and they didn’t answer me. When they couldn’t specify what they wanted, I told them what I’d be willing to work, which is 7.30am-2.45pm, Monday – Thursday. Thankfully they are happy with that and its all locked in.
I’ve mentioned to people that I told the new area what hours I wanted to work. It’s been a mixed reaction from people. Some were shocked that I could or would do that, others applauded my confidence. My belief is if you don’t tell someone what you want how will they know? If I didn’t tell the new area what I could work we would all end up in a bad situation. They would expect more of me than I could give which would result in poor performance ratings for me and possible demotion.
I’ve always told my work places what hours I can and cant work. I’ve never had a position knocked back because of it. Being upfront, I start on good footing with it clearly stated in any contract, meaning it cant be easily changed by management. If you don’t tell, they wont know.
The other thing I made sure to clarify was my pay rate. In my work place, after working a certain time at one level you are entitled to an hourly rate rise, even if you are acting. Last time I acted in a position at this level I missed out on the pay increase due to having a baby and finishing my acting right before the rate increase applied. I asked if they would increase it now as I had met the requirements previously.
Within 10 minutes I had written confirmation that I would be paid the higher rate. This also means that in a few months when increases are looked at again, I will have once again met the criteria to be given a raise. It’s another instance of if you don’t ask, you wont get.
I’m excited to move on in my workplace. I have been in the same area for 7 years. Its been a good area and suited me and my family well. My managers have been excellent and accommodating of 2 pregnancies that were quite taxing, extended maternity leave and allowing me the hours I wanted when I returned. Its been brilliant for unexpected time off with children, taking family holidays and adjusting schedules.
They are sad to see me go, but my direct supervisor has been wonderful about helping me find a higher position. She has reached out to areas, looked over any applications I have wanted to hand in, given me glowing references, sent me adverts when she thinks I would like them. Never have I had a manager want to keep me while at the same time work so hard to help me.
I’ve been using this experience to help teach our children that work ethic and respect pay off. So often these days we see people buy or cheat their way forward and the nice guy get left behind. Not today people, not today. I cant see myself returning to my old job when my 12 months in this one are up, but I know I have a manager who is more than willing to take me or help me. I have made friends and developed relationships that will last beyond the workplace, I’ve advanced my career without hurting others or preventing them from opportunities and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect job to come my way.
Be the nice guy, help others, show your children there is a point to having integrity.