My problem: I have the perfect job!

Question:
I have gone job searching three times in my life. Each time, I've had a number of good offers, none of which I strongly preferred over the others. For this reason, I never had any trouble negotiating a good salary and good benefits. When good raises came through, I stayed. When they didn't, I moved on.

Now, however, I'm in a funny situation: I love my job! It's interesting, nonstressful (hard to find in the high-tech world, but I work in a research department), flexible, and I work with a great group of people. My boss has his problems, but he's the best out of the six I've had. The problem is that loving the job has made me lose my negotiating confidence. Never before have I felt that I had anything to lose.

Suddenly, I'm shy—just when the job market is exploding. I could easily get 30 percent more (and more equity) somewhere else if I were willing to change jobs. But I don't want to give this one up, and I'm afraid it shows. I would greatly appreciate some ideas on dealing with this strange and new situation.

Reply:
After years of casual career romances, you've fallen in love and it scares you. You're in love with your job and it makes you weak in the knees. Congratulations. Enjoy it!

It's kind of a Darwinian mechanism: Your job pleasure "protects itself" by rendering you less effective as a job hunter and negotiator. If you can't job hunt, you won't leave the job you love.

Sound kooky? Ah, well, it probably is. I guess what I'm saying is, your happiness at this job may be worth more than the promise of more money to do a job you won't like as much.

You've discovered an interesting fact that a lot of people never even get close to: There are things in life that matter more than money, like love (of another person or of your work).

This is a blessing. I suggest you rephrase your question to yourself this way: "Would I take 30 percent more money to leave this job, this boss, and these people?" All I can do is wish you the best and suggest you consider what's really important to you.

Best,
Nick Corcodilos
Ask The Headhunter®

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