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I'm currently employed and I really like my job, however the pay is low and there is no guarantee this job will last long term. I work for a very small nonprofit and we depend solely on donations.
So far we're doing great and I do have confidence that the organization will do well enough to fulfill its mission, but never quite well enough to pay anywhere close to median wages. Retired volunteers mostly run it.
I've decided in the meantime I will cast my net for other opportunities. Since I'm currently employed what better time is there to "go over the top" when applying for other positions. I will apply for top-notch positions, ask for top $$$$ salary, a relocation package (yes, I would like to relocate), excellent benefits and whatever my heart desires! When I get an interview, I will ask the tough questions. No holds barred!
I figure what the heck, what do I have to lose! The sky's the limit! I'm not desperate and I do have time on my side.
How about you, have you ever...
thrown caution to the wind and asked for the Moon and Stars and got it?
I wish you luck as it seems that you don't have that many personal responsibilities to "aim for the stars", but it's also wise to temper your expectations.
Are you only focused on money? Or are you going for positions that will truly fulfill you combined with a high salary? I agree with sweep the lag that expectations have to be tempered, And realistic. Bear in mind for high paying positions you must be able to convince them YOU are the person to select over your competitors and this will take a lot of effort. You must sell them on this. That said your confidence is a plus and I hope you find the path to happiness that you seek.
Are you only focused on money? Or are you going for positions that will truly fulfill you combined with a high salary? I agree with sweep the lag that expectations have to be tempered, And realistic. Bear in mind for high paying positions you must be able to convince them YOU are the person to select over your competitors and this will take a lot of effort. You must sell them on this. That said your confidence is a plus and I hope you find the path to happiness that you seek.
Actually not really focused on money, I will go for positions that "truly fulfill" me, combined with at least a median salary. High salary to me is probably on the low end for most. I usually end up serving with nonprofit organizations with mission/values that align with mine and typically, they cannot afford to pay huge or median salaries.
@Wmsn4Life:
I have 25 + years experience in (not limited to) the following: Volunteer Management, Data Management, Project Coordination, Event Planning, Fundraising, Bookkeeping, Client/family services, Disaster Services, Theatre Management, Stage Management, Website and social media content management and IT support.
I have 25 + years experience in (not limited to) the following: Volunteer Management, Data Management, Project Coordination, Event Planning, Fundraising, Bookkeeping, Client/family services, Disaster Services, Theatre Management, Stage Management, Website and social media content management and IT support.
Good luck with your "plan." I doubt you'll get what you want.
Sure, you have 25 yeas of stuff, but it's all a mixed bag. Can you show progressive advancement in one career field? Are you at management level in that career? Usually, those are the people who get relo packages and top salaries. But since you don't need the money, go for it.
Well, as the saying goes, you don't know unless you ask.
That said, if you really want to make progress in your career, I think it's best to take small to medium size steps in the direction you want to go. For example, here has been what my career trajectory has looked like (post college):
You'll notice it wasn't [Job 1 entry level] Operations/Logistics Specialist > [Job 2] CEO
Now, I'm not saying it can't happen. But the likelihood that it does happen for an average joe is slim to nil.
Also, it has been my experience that you don't get relocation packages unless A) you're highly recruited talent, or B) you're a top-level executive (CEO, CFO, CIO, CTO, Director, etc.).
Therefore, my suggestion is to cultivate your skills and experience and build up your career at a rather steady pace. When you look for a job at that next level, try negotiating for a $5k-$10k pay bump. And maybe a little extra PTO to sweeten the deal.
Good luck with your "plan." I doubt you'll get what you want.
Sure, you have 25 yeas of stuff, but it's all a mixed bag. Can you show progressive advancement in one career field? Are you at management level in that career? Usually, those are the people who get relo packages and top salaries. But since you don't need the money, go for it.
I am at management level and have been for many years.
Well, as the saying goes, you don't know unless you ask.
Quote:
Originally Posted by 4DM1N
Also, it has been my experience that you don't get relocation packages unless A) you're highly recruited talent, or B) you're a top-level executive (CEO, CFO, CIO, CTO, Director, etc.).
Therefore, my suggestion is to cultivate your skills and experience and build up your career at a rather steady pace. When you look for a job at that next level, try negotiating for a $5k-$10k pay bump. And maybe a little extra PTO to sweeten the deal.
Either way, good luck!
Thanks 4DM1N
I am currently an Office Administrator & Volunteer Manager, in the past I have been a Managing Director, Director of Volunteers, Campaigns & Events, so yes I have cultivated my skills, experience and built up my career at a steady pace and continue to do so.
I've always been drawn to smaller local nonprofits with limited budgets (with the exception of one nationally recognized org, however it was funded and run on a local level).
What I've been thinking about is finding a nonprofit with a larger budget.
It's always best not to be desperate -- that applies to a job, buying a car, finding a partner. Always best to have options and be able to use a more leisurely approach rather than have to grab the first thing that comes along. You're always in a better negotiating position when you aren't having to panic.
That's why I think it's always best to be employed when looking for another job and never quit a job until you have another one to go into.
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When I get an interview, I will ask the tough questions. No holds barred! 
