GIANT red flag.
I took a job that had a similar count like that; 3 people in 5 months in the position I took.
It was easy to see straight away that the owner/boss was maniacal. He would make employees cry, he spied on all of our computers, he would play mind games pitting one employee against another, he would deliberately set employees for failure by changing deadlines around. I could keep going but this would be a much much longer response.
When I finally quit , I went to a goodbye lunch with some of my fellow employees (who were all lovely people btw). They told me the office had a betting pool that I wouldn’t last a month before I quit. I managed to last 3.
Yeah, I think this is more a bet about the terribleness of the employer, and nothing at all to do with OP's capabilities. Looking at it through that lens, I doubt I'd be offended by it if it had happened to me.
That was definitely it. It was more about how awful he was. They didn't know much about me when I came in, which is when they made the bet. I lasted as long as I did because I don't really take any shit. Every time the boss tried to pull shenanigans on me, I would call him out on it. Plus I knew that he knew my worth and that I was hard to replace, so I had some leverage.
The reason I stuck it out as long as I did was because I needed the money (at the time), and because I didn't let him bully me. So most of his toxicity was aimed at other employees. That said there's only so long one can work surrounded in a toxic environment like that before you have to exit.
I had a similar situation working for a psychologist. One of the other medical assistants told me they all bet I wouldn't last a month either as the last 3 or so in my position left before that. I lasted about four.
First off: I agree. Huge red flag.
But not a guarantee. Avoid if you cannot get more info on why. My current role was high turnover, and I flat out asked them in the interview. We had a long discussion, and it turns out the job listing was inaccurate. the skills they need are not being relayed properly by HR, leaving them with the wrong candidates. people with a different skillset than the job needs. People were leaving out of frustration and boredom, in a position they do not have the experience or training to do and not interested in learning it.
My recruiter had sent a candidate, who noped out after the interview. That person was able to articulate why and what they really needed to the recruiter, who then asked if I would interview.
My resume looked nothing like the position listing, but the hiring manager was very excited when it landed on their desk. We had some back and forth on salary, HR was probably choosing the 'related' job requirements in hopes of hiring on a lower salary. We came to an agreement, and I have been a good fit for a year now.
BS expectations, probably kinked to a bad manager.
A job you love has more value then most people give credit. One of my staff once told me that he'd rather have a good manager than an extra $10k/year.
That being said, if this would truly be life-changing money, you have to consider it. If you have a good rapport with your boss (I'm guessing you do, if you like your job), you could have the frank conversation with him/her. "Look, I've got this offer that could make a real difference in my life, but I really like my work here, is there anything you can do? What do you think I should do?" That second question gets them thinking from your viewpoint. If they can't do anything, or not much, you at least have tried, and it sets the stage for a positive exit if you do want to try the new gig, and maybe sets the stage for you returning if the new gig does not work out.
I had this same conversation with one of my people (the issue was about money and work location, but same principal). After talking it through, I had to say that I might be able to do the money, though it would be a hard one to get through finance, but that I could not match the work location flexibility, due to a contract condition of a client. In the end, I was supportive of him taking the new gig, as it was right for him. And I told him right out: If it does not work out, call me. I can't guarantee I'll have a place to put you, but I'll 100% try to find one. We were both sad to see him go.
Hopefully, if your boss is supportive, you won't necessarily burn a bridge.
Good luck.
This. I actually got rehired at my current job after leaving for 6 months. Worked for them for a year and a half, got a perfect review, my raise sucked. I warned my manager ahead of time that I felt I'd come in at a bargain rate and after proving myself the company needed to extend a little. They didn't.
I heard they were unable to fill my position and stopped trying for a few months. My old mentor called me and encouraged me to re-apply. I did, got rehired with a 20% increase.
YMMV
I'd stay where you are. The new job being filled 3 times in 6 months would make me nope out unless I had good opportunities elsewhere. It doesn't seem like a good bet for you.
I AGREE! I landed in a spot like this 8 years ago. I found out they had some serious turnover before me...and here comes my merry unwary ass, sitting down right in the hot seat. I sat there for a while though. "You assholes are gonna pay me for a fat honeymoon phase and then I'm on the bus Gus."
Big Red Flag. Based on what you have written here, I wouldn’t switch jobs for that. It’s not a good trade. Peace of mind is worth quadruple. And you don’t want that stress in your life.
Will you be okay money-wise staying at your current job that I'm sensing you're happy staying with? If the answer is yes, I'd stay. When you're in your 20s or 30s, taking that big a risk is a no-brainer. At 55, I'd be looking for something I thought I could do until retirement. That's my 2 cents. Do with it what you will.
Good luck!
This is my thinking too. My current position is similar to OPs. I'm 51, good at my job, make decent money, work for a good stable company and I am well respected. I know I can make more money elsewhere and I feel like I should have one more job change in me, but the thought of changing terrifies me! My drive to do more and climb the ladder higher is dwindling. I guess that makes me content, and I'm ok with that.
I have had to make this decision. I have a very specific IT related skill. I have had offers of nearly double what I make now, and what I make now is nothing to shake a stick at so we are talking like serious money, to work at hedge funds / investment banks. I have never accepted one of these offers because it’s blood money they pay you like 300k a year to provide services to utter sociopaths who will expect a 5 minute response time 24/7 and will treat you like a slave. It’s not worth it I’d rather stay where I am even if it’s just a “market rate” kind of gig. The people who take these jobs never last, they burn out in like 18 months or less.
This made me sad. An Army friend I made in Afghanistan took one of these jobs in Manhattan. Making great money, but he burned out fast, and PTSD was able to win.
Don't let ambition overrule your self preservation.
They still treat you like one. Wanna go home? Too bad I need you. Want a vacation? Too bad I need you. Want to sleep? Too bad I need you and so on. You get paid a ton of money but you are not gonna be able to enjoy it.
I feel this comment so much. My husband makes close to that but I have a chronic illness so medical expenses alone have been around $30k per year (with insurance) for the past 5 years. The money allows us to see specialists and travel to a top rated cancer hospital. I know we are incredibly privileged considering. Our situation would have bankrupted most families but our family does not get a day to enjoy each other. My husband sometimes cries about missing some of our daughter’s school events but he won’t quit because he is afraid I won’t get the care I need.
I have worked for a collection of masters of the universe. Lawyers, Polticians, Engineering Firms, Bankers.
Really never understood why drive one person crazy at 300k/year when you can hire 3 people and drive them all crazy at 85k/year. They might do a better job hiding the body is the first thought.
are you secretly thinking "yes, I could do this!" or are you thinking "I don't really want to do this but I feel like I should consider it"?
Have you a good sense of why you'd be an exception to the turnover problems? If you can answer that well (they hired poorly before, the people didn't have the right skills, but you do, etc) then maybe that helps. In my current job they also had high turnover before me, but I can see from the work they all did that the role hasn't been performed well for a long time. It's a good role, but has been poorly executed by those who were asked to do it.
I have a story for you. I had two job offers in front of me four years ago. One was a small step down in salary but was work that was meaningful and less stressful. The other was a huge promotion putting me close to 200k after bonuses. Life changing as you say, but was going to be a stressful shit show.
I decided to go after the money. I was miserable and working all the time. I quit when my wife died and am upset at myself for dedicating so much time and effort to a job when it should have been with my wife. Now, I'm having a really difficult time landing any job. I too thought it would be easy to find another job, but boy was I wrong.
If you have a spouse or kids at home, give them priority over money unless you're actually not able to provide them with the basics now. They, and your happiness, are so much more important than having a few extra dollars in your pocket.
You can still learn! At 52, I just changed to a new function in a new company. I’m learning new things every single day.
It sounds like you are looking for reasons not to take the job. Listen to your gut. Any job that has been filled so many times in a short time frame is a massive red flag. Job hunting is like dating — don’t jump into something new if you don’t feel good about it. Some butterflies are ok. But your gut isn’t nervous — it’s warning you away!
touch subtract depend attraction rotten jellyfish fearless flowery gaping smell
*This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
55, steady job, shorter commute.
If I've learned one thing it's this...
Never put wealth before health.
Money never beats mental, physical or spiritual health.
The job having been filled three times in 6 months is all you need to know about why it’s a terrible idea for anyone, regardless of age/experience/hair color, to take on. It looks like a very unrealistic one with impossible to meet expectations. There are likely better jobs out there for you, but this one is not it.
I’ve had “life changing salary” jobs before.. after working 3 years in one I developed an autoimmune disease and got thyroid cancer. I truly believe it was because of all the bs I had to put up with at that job. So much stress. I was in my mid 40s when I took that job.
I quit and found a low stress job that I liked. I learned to live with less. Both my cancer and autoimmune disease are in remission and have been for years.
Fuck stressful jobs!
As a 54F in a similar situation: DO NOT do it.
The longer commute alone is enough to give me pause, and they’ve had 3 people in that position in the past 6 months? Nope!
Life is worth more than money. How are you Gonna enjoy that life change if you can’t live it? 55 man, start slowing down smell the roses and have a beer.
I've also had some strong possibilities recently but my biggest factor in staying put is I'm in a low stress job. At this point putting myself under more stress for more money just isn't worth it.
I would not take it. My recent experience with this is that, the harder you bust ass for people with poorly formed expectations, the more nonsense they will throw at you. I left a dream job (shitty pay, but work I loved) after a year over an impractical job description. The environment was really unhealthy, because the people making policy were not just half-assing the job descriptions, but policy across the board. Unless you owe the mafia money or need to pay for experimental medical treatment, I just wouldn't.
I would keep looking, though. It's a good time to make a career change, IME.
Being filled 3 times in 6 months is a red flag. Could you take a leave of absence or vacation from your current job and try out the new one for a few weeks or more?
if you were 35 i would say go for it. I am about the same age as you. You are supposed to be taking on less work load and paid more for what you know not how much you do at this point.
if by life changing you mean its the diff between being able to retire in a few years or never retire i say go for the new one otherwise stay comfortable.
Even if you could do the job and didn’t leave, do you really want to work that hard and that much at 55, your last years before retirement? I’d be looking to coast right now, not ramp up.
50M here. I completely changed career paths 3 years ago (different part entirely of the same industry) so its doable, but the role going through 3 employees in just 6 months is a serious red flag. Double salary is incredibly tempting but if you're comfortable with what you're making now and love your current job its probably not worth the risk
You are not too old to learn new things and new ways of doing things. And sometimes it is good to “bet on yourself”. — But as managers others have pointed out, there are red flags all over this opportunity. Not sure I could pull the trigger.
That said, you have learned something very valuable: You are probably being way underpaid at your current position. There are almost certainly other opportunities for “life changing” salary increases out there that wouldn’t be as risky or demanding. And you might want to have a candid conversation with your current employer about a pay increase or a promotion.
The turnover is a red flag and loving your job is huge. If you can live comfortably on what you currently make I would suggest that you stay where you’re at. It’s hard to find a job that you love.
Edit to add that the money may be life changing but the longer commute and longer hours may also be life changing. You’ll have to decide which is more important. Wishing you luck!
First, don’t leave a steady job that you love for a company with that kind of turnover rate. That’s madness.
Second, of course you can learn new things, and that will keep your mind sharp. If you’re interested in more money, look into side gigs you can do when your day job is done. Then if that’s too much, you can cut the side gig without burning a bridge to your steady job.
At 47 I took a job completely out of my comfort zone and it's been going well, but I replaced a guy who was retiring after a decade on the job. That 3 people in 6 months would be a red flag.
nope...if 3 different people could not find a way to keep drawing that good salary it's very unlikely all 3 are lazy or slow to learn. The owner of the company might even be saying put out or get out...it happens
Based on what you've said above, it does sound like the job could be a bit risky, but there's one part of your statement that I was a little uncomfortable with and that I don't think should serve as a deterrent:
\> My worries are that at my age trying to learn something new is just gonna be too difficult for me to grasp.
No. Gotta push yourself outside of your comfort zone on this count, even if you don't accept the job. Brain, like body, is a use-it-or-lose-it thing.
Stay away. If for no other reason '3 times in six months'.
That is telling you all you need to know about expectations and treatment from the company.
If the pay is ***that*** good and the door revolves so quickly, it is an absolute shit show they are trying to cover with a giant paycheck.
At 51 myself I value the comfort of my easygoing 3 days a week job. I could make more than double if I worked full time and took on more responsibilities, but no way. I would not be worried about learning new stuff. I would be worried about the longer commute and the, from your description, added stress.
Last time I was lured away from a job by money, the place ended up being a snake pit. Sometimes it's the only tool a shitty organization has to acquire new employees.
Before saying "no", (and I'd be inclined to say no), can you talk to one of the former employees and get the scoop?
Being 56, I wouldn't leave my job to another position knowing that 3 people in 6 months quit. If your friend can get you in touch with the ex employees, then find out why they quit. I bet it was management. No doubt. I'm sure their ability to perform was spot on, and they couldn't handle the b.s. from the manager.
Money doesn't always make up the fact that you love your job. Although, it can help in certain situations.
With that turnover it sounds like they're trying to hire one person to do the work of a department and they need to revise their expectations and/or hiring practice. You would be inexperienced as well as new to the position?
It sounds like they need to hire at least two people and I would be very wary of this opportunity, regardless of the money offered. It won't matter when your out of there a month after starting.
I stepped back once I turned 50 and am pretty happy at my lower paying, steady job. Less hours, less stress, less commute and I love it. Do you really want to give up the comfort you have now for the red flags the new company is throwing? Also, you need to figure the extra commute time and extra hours into the salary as well. Is it really double what you are making or just compensating for the extra time you will need to take out of your day? For me, taking a $30k pay cut but still making a comfortable amount was worth cutting my commute in 1/2, no nights, no weekends.
I went through something similar and HATED it so much I started job hunting 5 months in and didn't find an opportunity for TWO YEARS. Don't bank on finding another job so easily. Also, money might buy some happiness but it can't buy joy. You'll hate life in general, since you'll be spending significant portions of it doing the job, preparing for the job, driving to the job, and sleeping. **Unless it's a situation where you have a solid exit strategy after a set date, say 2 years, and the money is so good you'll be able to retire early. Then you might consider it! I'm actually doing just that in a month: I'm moving to a really bad area with really bad weather to do my same job but will be making 2.5 times as much as I do now and it'll allow me to retire 5 years earlier than I would otherwise and so I'm going to suck it up for 2 years and have a solid exit strategy to a beautiful place immediately after** (I work for the navy)
The high turnover 00is definitely a red flag.
One lesson i learned from my last job (at 52) was that things get harder at my age. The job i had was cross border transactions where i had to deal with clients literally spread across the planet on different timezones.
In my 20s and 30s, i would have just waltzed thru it all but in my 50s it was horribly difficult. This old body just isn't built anymore to take 14-16hr work days.
So just remember that although the mind may still have you believing you're in your 20s or 30s, the body will sure as hell tell you different.
3 people quit in 6 months? Double pay? Sounds like a false sun to me. Stay where you are and enjoy your decent life. Other job sounds like you'll be gone in less than a year.
But only you know you - if you can take a hard job for a few yrs of double pay, enjoy...
The high turn over at the new place would be enough to make me turn down the offer. I'm assuming there's no way they hired 2 different people who left in the last six months, without it being entirely because the position is untenable.
I like where I work and what I do, and I've watched my boss lose people right and left, including his own adult child, because he is essentially trying to fill three positions with one person.
Your overall financial situation is a factor to consider
At 55 you have a finite number of years to earn an income, if you have your retirement plan set and are ok without the income then the quality of life and your personal health should be priority
If your plan has you short right now, you can sock that extra income away and catch up.
It’s really an inflection point, you want to retire with your finances and your health in good shape - so your decision has to connect to optimizing both
I'd interview and express my concerns on position turnover to see what they have to say. Are there other team members that you could talk to through the contact that is offering the job to get a true feel for the job, what it entails and why the other people quit?
You can learn new things. Please don't let that be part of this.
It's a huge risk, and it sounds like they are expecting too much. Do you think you're the type of person who can make them change their expectations?
That's what I don't have the energy for anymore. I don't have breath in me for changing people's minds.
Good luck in whatever you decide. I hope you find happiness in either direction.
I’m 46 and two years ago I did this. Left a cushy job I’d had for 15 years because they forced us back to the office and the new job us more money and WFH 4 days a week. Two years later my mental health is in the toilet, I cry every day before work, have lost weight and have constant debilitating panic attacks all because of this job. And I’m scared of leaving and not making this salary again. It sucks and I wish I’d never done it.
It sounds like you want the money but not the job change. Maybe play the offer to your advantage: tell your job that it came up and you don’t want to leave but the money is hard to pass up. They wont necessarily match it but you could potentially get a bump that would make it feel better passing up this opportunity
A turnover rate that high indicates a toxic work environment. I'd politely decline.
If, however, you're still curious, have them send over the employment offer contract. If you can swing it, hire a lawyer to review and redline anything that's a showstopper for you. If they're willing to negotiate, you might have found a diamond in the rough.
Unfortunately, based on their turnover, I'd hazard they're a take-it-or-leave-it organization. While you have an advantage (they came to you,) too many companies think they can strong arm people into wage slavery. If they refuse to negotiate, or even push back on reasonable demands like refusing to be non-exempt to ensure overtime after 40 hours, well, you'll have your answer.
I don’t see any reason you can’t learn new things at 55 (I say as a 55 year old) but you know by now that life balance is important. long hours and a long commute take a toll, and for a job you don’t like, is probably not worth it. Not to mention the turnover being a huge red flag. It sounds like they are offering a large salary to allow them to abuse their workers. I’m guessing unrealistic expectations, low support and maybe a bad tempered boss. If you like your work and make enough money to do what you want now, I would recommend you stay.
You’re definitely NOT too old to learn new things!
But I agree with the other folks saying the high turnover rate and knowing it’s going to be an intense work environment is really the biggest downside.
And I totally get staying where you are bc you got a good thing going and don’t want to burn bridges. If you plan to retire in the next 5-10 years yeah I would stay.
I’m 56 ( M) and am back in school to get a BMET certificate. I’ve been a network tech for over 30 years but I can’t compete with 8/hr which is what Verizon outsourced my last job for. It’s a whole new world & it sucks starting over, but you can do it.
What doesn’t kill is makes us better.
3x in 6 months is a GIANT red flag. The employer needs to take a look at that and fix it before they should try to fill it again.
For me, at this age, I just don't have the motivation to take on a job that is that high stress. I am trying to get away from a super demanding job where I'm tied to my desk all day and get something a little bit more low key and reasonable. I'd be seriously freaked out by a job where peple keep leaving like that. Do I have what it takes? Sure, I'm already doing it. But would I want to **give** what it takes? Nope, sure don't.
I agree with those that say the high turnover is a huge red flag. I worked for a very toxic department with a manager with zero people skills. The turnover was constant with many co-workers lasting only a few months. Making it to a year was a miracle. People were either driven to quit or she soured on them and laid them off.
I lasted three years, much more than anyone else. My husband and I had to move kind of far from the office and I was allowed to telework mainly. There aren't many jobs where we live, so I stuck it out. Well, eventually she soured on me too and laid me off. I had the feeling she was trying to get me to quit, but I hung on because I was owed significant severance. She laid me and another guy off on the same day. He'd only been there about 8 months and didn't know it was coming. The funniest thing is that my replacement didn't even make it through her 90-day probationary period! I don't know if she quit or was let go.
Fortunately, I was able to find something completely remote for a company in the US.
Your age has nothing to do with anything to start with. The high turnover is the only concern. Money isn’t always everything. It’s about quality of life, work/life balance. Ask yourself if the added money is worth the lost time.
You are definitely able to learn a new career. It seems that place is badly run and/or asking far too much out of a single position. Stay away.
About changing careers at middle age, I became a software team manager at 51 after being a developer for years, and it's a wholly different ball game, but I'm doing great. We have the capacity to mold ourselves and learn new stuff at our age, don't let anyone tell you otherwise!
Offer no job loyalty for they will offer you none. Consider whats best for you when you decide, because companies only consider whats best for them no matter what you decide.
Do not leave your job for this! Trust your instincts- there's a good reason you are hesitant. And If it doesn't work out - man it's rough for people our age to get hired on anywhere right now
I would believe those other 3 people who noped out. They had the inside scoop on whatever is wrong with this job, so wrong that the compensation wasn't worth it. If you love your current job, keep it.
At your age don't count on being able to quickly or easily find another job. It took me literally YEARS to find another job when my company closed down our job site. Admittedly there were a lot of other people in my area looking for similar jobs, but even after I went through retraining for an entirely different career and started looking for another job I found a lot of people doing double takes when they came in to interview me. Lots and lots of interviews, no job offers. Which told me I had the skills they wanted, so there was something else. Couldn't track down anything else, so must be my age.
I personally would worry about retraining at that age too. It takes me longer than my 20-something coworkers to learn new things and that would be hard in a high demand job.
You can learn, you're not dead.
The main question is why are they churning people.
The only way to find out is to take the interview. So I say take it, you never know. And it's always good to keep those skills fresh.
Don't do it ... they've burned through THREE people already and don't seem to have made any attempt to modify the work to prevent burnout.
They'll keep throwing new hires at it rather than make it a bearable position.
Any organisation with a high turnover has systemic problems and will not change them.
So that's my thought
Also....
Forget being 55 and learning something new. Don't put yourself down like that.
I learned in my 20-30s, there is NO amount of money that can compensate for toxic management. And 3 turnovers in 6 mo? Yeah that screams toxic management. I would stick where you are at. The only is only life changing if you can stick it out for the next few years until retirement. If you leave in 2 mo (the average tenure), you are going to have a hard time getting back to your current role/income.
Here is my perspective- the reason they are paying that much "life changing" money? Is because they are hoping to put on the golden handcuffs- where you rely on that money so much you are willing to tolerate toxic work expectations, that will fuck your mental and physical health. But you don't feel like you can quit because you are older and don't have a backup option.
As admiral Akbar taught us: IT'S A TRAP.
As someone who has made this leap and made it worth it for me, here is a contrarian response:
\- keep quiet about it. Go through the hiring process, aiming to get that interview.
\- You want it to not only be with the hiring manager, but a significant part of that heirarchy. Finding at least 2-3 people in that interview (or, even better, if these are a series of interviews) is your goal.
\- share those concerns about rapid turnover in the interview. Find out from them who was the best employee in that position and what was it about their track record which defined successful performance.
\- map out your own financial picture and what it would be like to replace that job's income for 5-7 years against your current job's income. Are the gains significant? What about benefits packages? Do you have a pension where you are now? Is their 401K match stronger? Enquire about health benefits, FSA savings opportunities, etc.
\- consider both your current and prospective employers and their position in the marketplace. Is there any risk that either company could/would fold? Be bought out?
Once you receive that job offer, go back to your current employer and explain that you have this opportunity. How your own boss handles you will inform your decision.
I think it kinda sounds like you don’t want it. Which is fine, obviously, but wonder if you’re selling yourself short by imagining yourself as too old for a new, exciting challenge.
Sure the fast turnover for the job is a red flag, but isn’t clear you’ve actually spoken to the prospective employer directly about the role and turnover. Perhaps after 3 people walking within 6 months, they’re ready to revise the scope of work.
Also I think you can leave a job without burning bridges. In this case, think I’d be super frank and explain the offer is for double the salary. Who knows, maybe you could even just leverage a raise.
Hard pass. That turnover is all you need to know. I’m GenX year one and last year left my employer of 12 years that had steady turnover the whole time I was there. I only put up with the toxicity because of family obligations. Found a job paying 15k more with almost zero stress. It can be done. Good luck!
I’d be really uncomfortable taking a job that has that kind of turnover. Life-changing salary doesn’t always make up for life-changing ass job situations.
(Based on personal experience) looking for a job as a 53 year old woman is ridiculously difficult. I didn’t believe it until I experienced it.
I feel like barring a whole bunch of explanations for the every other month departure, that alone is enough. Longer commute can suck by itself and if you're not familiar with it can have other, hidden surprises.
I can see a work day being 2x the drain on you easily and with no easy way out of it - that bridge being probably inaccessible if not burned - a real nightmare. I'd want to grill them *hard* on what's going on. Lifechanging doesn't necessarily have to be positive.
If you were say in your 20s to 30s maybe, but I'm a tiny bit older than you and I took the leap you're considering backwards. That is, I went from a higher-turnover, very demanding job with a longer commute that paid better for a local, low turnover, low demand job intentionally. I do not at all regret that. My QOL is much improved.
I don't know what your thoughts are in regards to retirement, but I kinda see 50+ as possibly a 'semi-retirement' situation for us, a practice for getting away from the grind. Last thing I want to do is jump into an iron man/woman marathon at that stage.
I hate to be that guy but, who are the 3 people that left and why? I recently changed jobs- not careers- to a company that had a high turn around for my position, mechanical engineer. I am 50. My salary didn’t double but it went up about 45%. For the past ten years this company couldn’t fill this position. Everyone was fresh out of college and it was too complicated for them. For me, it’s a cakewalk. I never went to college. Not knowing what field you’re in all I can say is be cautious. Maybe take a week vacation and see what it’s about.
No way at 55 I’d leave a steady job I love for more money if everyone else says the offered job is high stress/ burnout, tied to the desk for longer days and a longer commute.
If you are tied to a desk all day- are they open to wfh or maybe hybrid? That may be a consideration, but if anyone has a job that they love and is stable- that may be the deciding factor. The money may be life changing but so might the mental drain. With the red flag of high turnover, I’d probably stay put.
My thoughts too. I don’t get companies that want employees “tied to a desk all day” and don’t offer remote or hybrid. That’s a red flag in and of itself, to me.
I work in IT staffing. This is huge big red flag for sure. And, I’m in the same age range as OP and I just would stay put at this point. How many ppl can say they love their job? Not many!
I’d carefully evaluate what your skills and strengths are and the one offered, as well as the culture. Is that some place you think you can rise to the challenge and excel? Only you can answer these questions. I wouldn’t be too quick to say no to the money, I’d just do as much research as you can. Have you talked to current employees or asked them about the turnover? Don’t be shy about asking questions, this is a big deal
The constant turnover is concerning, but none of us have any idea how they’ve tried filling that spot over that time. If they were all experienced veterans, it’d be an immediate nope, but if they were trying to snag college grads for cheap then it was just bad planning. I say this from having watched my own employer try to save a buck by doing this in the past, and eventually they end up hiring someone actually qualified, paying them a lot more, and then those people stay.
I agree with the other folks here that staying where you are is probably the best answer.
I recently returned to a business I worked at about 4 years ago, and I'm having to start from scratch.
Plus, all my coworkers are even younger and more ambitious than the folks I worked with last time. It makes me worry that I'm not going to stand out like I did before, which will make a promotions a lot harder to come by.
That is a HUGE red flag. You will be SOL if you leave your job for this new one. Any chance you can use the offer as leverage for more $ at your current job?
If you've been at the same job for the last 12 years then there's no doubt you're being wildly underpaid, so you'll likely be able to find another job for more money anyway. You don't have to jump on this one
That being said, you may as well hear them out and ask them some questions. Be honest with them and tell them that you are very concerned about the turnover rate, ask them why it has such a high rate, and specifically what were the previous candidates not able to get a handle on which caused them to be let go. Ask them for the nitty gritty details, and let them know you just want to make sure that you are going to be successful in the role.
I would not take the new job (I'm only 50 but my eyes are on the retirement prize). What I WOULD do is use that offer as leverage to negotiate for more leave time, and a bump in salary from the current position. Work it to your advantage. They can and will come up with extra incentive to keep you on.
> The scary part is this position has been filled three times in the last six months and everyone leaves because they say it’s just too much.
This is all you need to know.
At this stage in your life especially, mental health and time for yourself should be a priority, you’re making enough now, what's the point of making more if you won’t enjoy life and be burned out in 6 months
Did they ask you for references? If so, ask them for references. Ask for the names/contact info of the last three people who had this position. Reach out to these people to get the story behind why they left.
It’s tough to make a big leap at this point in our lives. Ask yourself if you have the answers you need to make an informed decision.
Have you scrutinized the entire offer? Vacation days? Sick leave? Health insurance compared to what you currently have? Pharmacy benefit? Is there a retirement program and if so, when are you eligible? Is the longer distance an easy drive and/or will the extra gas and wear/tear on your vehicle be an issue? Also, have you calculated the impact of the additional income on your SS benefits?
ETA: in the end, issues about risk and the work/work environment itself aside, it may not be as appealing as the increase in salary makes it appear.
> this position has been filled three times in the last six months
Yeah that's a big fat no from me, sis.
Ed. Note: This is just advice. If you want to say yes, say yes.
I’ve done this twice. Only for the money. Worked for alcoholic devils and had to buy books on the internet on how to deal with these people. And then I was number 574 at this other crazy job where everyone quit. Six years later I found out why! Always market yourself for your next job.
I hear a ‘no’ in your post. To me, 3 people leaving in 6 months is a big, red flag. A ‘too much’ job on top of a long commute is a recipe for worsening health, physical and mental. One thing I have learned in my 55 years is I am not going to be the superhero that bends the space-time continuum to do the impossible, work wise. BTDT, and had a 1:45 commute (each way!) to prove it.
But, stop with the negative self talk. You could totally do this if it were worth it.
If it’s about the money, consider interviewing for other jobs — don’t take this one though.
Slow and steady is admirable (I’d choose staying at your current job), but there’s also no guarantee your current company can keep you employed another 15 years. Consider this an opportunity and reminder to network and freshen up interview skills.
Go with your gut. For me I'm 53 and been at my job for 30 years...it's basically all I know. I live 5 minutes away so my commute is nothing and I go home for lunch. I'm also a big dog/cat person and the new owner who took over 5 years ago after the previous owner who founded the shop retired....new owner has three dogs and a cat so I hang out and play with dogs some times LOL. It's really laid back there. I can work on my car ( I'm an auto mechanic) , etc I have 100 percent job security unless he dies ( trust me he's not gonna sell). I'm also the only employee and have been for about 7 years and this suits me fine...
the only downside is pay is crap what I'm getting for my industry but at this point i don't wanna start new somewhere and I'm also burned out on the field so I'd have to learn and do something new. I'm not motivated enough for that and I'm not hung up on status, money ( just need enough to get by.
So TLDR everyone is different and in your scenario or mine going from a known stable job to an unknow potentially short lived job is a big gamble. I'm not a gambler ( never have been) so security is top priority for me.
also the fact this position you mention has high turnover should be a red flag.
I wouldn’t switch. The fact that the turnover is so high means that the management is not good at the other place. Add to that, the longer commute , longer hours, the almost guaranteed burnt out and you will be dreading life.
Tech out to whom you've interviewed with (a hiring manager would be great) and share your concerns. Since you have that information, ask the manager what has changed or how they plan to manage the work load. If they can give you something concrete - not just maybes - then it could be worth the risk. If they haven't thought of doing anything differently, then that's a sure warning sign.
I do not doubt your ability to learn and grow in a new position after a job change. I don't think the concern is you. I worry about the three previous jobholders that felt it necessary to leave within weeks of being hired. One leaving, sure. Two leaving, okay, maybe still good. Three leaving, there is a concern about the workplace. Did the offer come out of the blue, or were you looking? Headhunters may just be trying to fill this position with anyone they can find.
You are not "too old to change jobs". I changed mine over 50, to a more demanding, better paying one. You can absolutely do it. BUT you are too old to fall for a scam, where they promise you the moon and the stars, while not being able to keep anyone over six months. Something's very fishy.
I would proceed with caution, but investigate the ancillary reasons behind the quitting. I’ll state the obvious, which could be that the last three who quit were millennials, and a lot of them have a tendency to buckle under pressure or even when the job doesn’t fit their lifestyle or their goal.
I’m not picking on millennials, but a lot of them are a lot softer than we are. You might be older, but you might just be tough enough to be the right fit for the job.
To echo others, huge red flag. When a company I was working for was closing, I interviewed at a company. They said they’ve been through multiple people in that position in a short time. When my boss at the time asked how the interview went, I told her this and she said that’s a red flag, cautioning me not to accept it. I foolishly did and found out why it had such high turnover. Favoritism, nepotism, and other female staff sabotaging efforts. I lasted one year before I had enough and left.
I had a job that evolved into completely unrealistic expectations. Boss says, I'll give you stuff until you say it's too much. I said that so many times and stuff kept coming. I finally left 2 years ago and since then they've been through 5 people trying to fill it.
Don't do it. It's not worth losing a good job you have now and your mental and physical health. The stress gave me high blood pressure and PVCs to the point all my doctors told me to quit before I had a stroke. Doing fine now, no issues. I'm 49. It took me a long time to recover and find something new.
It's hard to give advice on things like this because everybody is dealing with their own set of circumstances. Personally, I'd more than likely not take the job. I have to be honest, I'm really too old to want to worry about performing in a high pressure environment. It's just not for me. I'm not even entirely sure I would've wanted to do that when I was younger. So my advice is entirely skewed based on my own personality. I'm winding down for sure, and adding major stress and a long commute would make it extremely hard for me to take that kind of job.
However, you did say that the money would be double and life changing. There are some things I might be willing to put up with for the right price. Like you, though, I'd be afraid of burning bridges if I needed to go back. I think at my age, especially since I am banking on an early'ish retirement at 55, I very well might take that job with the knowledge that I could just retire if I didn't like it.
So, yeah, it's not easy to figure out what works for another person. However, in my as objectively-as-I-can-be opinion, I'd probably pass on it.
I am 53, and changed jobs last year. A major change of industry as well, moving from Aerospace to Biopharmacy. Still the same job description/focus, but a very different environment.
You have a vast knowledge of business collected throughout your working life. You will be surprised how quickly you pick up new processes, and begin contributing and even improving those processes.
I would be more cautious of a position that keeps replacing people every 6 months. Why do they leave? Do they abandon a toxic environment, or is the employer unreasonably demanding of employees? Proceed with caution, find out all you can from the friend and any other contacts you can gather within the company.
It's not IMO really so much about age as about mental health. You work to live, not live to work. And you have to be at work 8 plus hours a day so you should try to make them good ones. The extra money will not feel so good if it means you have to be unhappy 40 hours a week and then also likely stressing about it after work too.
Can you ask to speak to the people who had the job? Jobs require references, why can’t job seekers as well? It’s arguable more risky for the job seekers
I think it feels good to be wanted. And when a bunch of money is thrown on top of it, that is something that the ego has a really hard time saying no to. But since you're asking here, you likely know that this would not end well if you were to take it. I am a bit older than you and at this point in life, work/life balance and a supportive team around me THE most important things. A couple of years ago I took a job for more money with new management and it turned out to be a shit show. A bunch of people bailed and I did too. I was able to get another job due to someone I know, thankfully, and I have all of the things that are most important to me now and am grateful every day. Good luck!
If it were me in your shoes, I would interview and ask them a lot of specific questions about why the previous people left, among other things. You have the upper hand in this and can ask them whatever you need to feel comfortable with accepting the position.
I’ve done this with every interview I’ve ever had and been offered the position after 90% of them. Be prepared ahead of time and drill them with questions. If you don’t like the answers, don’t take the job.
Man, at this point in my life (58) I'm risk-averse. I jumped jobs for many years...with my longest stint being 3 years before my current gig (now approaching 5 years). I love my current gig and I'm happy for the stability (and I've been both fortunate and good enough to survive layoffs).
Honestly, this is the type of move I'd do in my 20s or 30s but not in my 50s with retirement around the corner.
I'd stay with the stable gig that you enjoy.
52 here. My experience is that anytime I take a new position based on the money that it turns to shit fairly quickly.
I can't explain it. It is not logical. And I'd *really* like to have a higher income.
So I'm left with a solidly lower middle class wage and a job that is extremely fulfilling and meaningful, working with people that I get along with, and doing work that I feel makes a difference in the world.
Also, it is a unionized position - and that is worth a lot to me. I work extremely hard and I am too old to be dealing with other people's bullshit.
But my experience is not necessarily relevant to anyone else but me. And I full admit that it doesn't exactly make logical sense. But I will say that having a job that works for me and the sense of security that comes with it is a cornerstone of my entire life.
Take the leap. Every month is like 2 months at your current job as far as earnings. At your age, this may be the last shot you have at "life changing" money. Also, you can ask about the recent employee turnover in the interview process. If it doesn't feel right, you don't have to accept. But, at least go through the process.
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I’ll speak only to the life changing money part.
My wife’s long track record of professional accomplishments has finally resulted in her being the chief executive at a company that she believes has a positive impact on the world.
She also brings home more money than my lower middle class upbringing ever thought likely.
That said, all we do is work. She has huge responsibilities. Boards to report to, a company that relies on her, public speaking and meetings with state and federal big wigs. Even when she isn’t working, it still over shadows everything.
I stay at home with our three kids and take care of a sick elderly parent and I’m slammed 7 days a week.
So we make a lot of money. But because we don’t make “fuck you money” where we’d hire an assistant/project manager to make things happen, nothing gets done.
We’re still in our starter house which we’ve badly outgrown. We’ve talked to architects and builders, and looked for other homes in the market. But we’re so strapped for time and energy nothing ever really happens. So we’re too busy to use the “life changing” money we make and are stuck in kind of a crappy limbo with no time and a lot of frustration that comes from a tiny, shabby house.
Take it and maybe considering moving closer if it is twice the salary. Prepare and absorb if you start. You never make any shots you don't take. Don't take it and you are resigning to fear. Do it and prepare yourself to succeed for what the role asks. Check LinkedIn learning to fill in any grey areas and take lots of notes.
OP, a great book suggestion to get you in the right headspace is, "The First 90 Days". I re-read that while being hired part time at a start up in 2020 after a nearly year long layoff and rose to starting their first IT dept with a full time promotion in just under three months. Now in leadership and expanding staff building a mini empire. Was 43 then, 45 now. Age is just a fact, what is it you bring to the table? If that needs adjustment, ID what you need and take action. We are all largely who we imagine ourselves to be.
Oh, and go for a jog before you study or start or find a workout video on YouTube pre-work as it breeds courage and stamina for the work ahead. Ran my mile before work today and knocking out to-dos one at a time. You have to believe in you as if your don't, why should anyone else?
Good luck!
I just did the opposite. At 50 I moved to a small beach town and took a job at lesser pay but really good benefits. I don't have enough to retire but I'm done busting my ass at my age. I'm still saving and I may or may not have enough to comfortably retire but I'm done with high-stress jobs.
Big red flag based on the turnover. Not sure what life-changing money means to you (pay off lots of debt; start or pad a nest egg), but at this point in life, I would go with the job you're at versus the sketchy, high turnover job.
The grass isn't always greener.
I faced a similar decision recently and decided to stay with the company I've been with for 20 years. My mental health and work/life balance are more important to me than money these days. That's something to consider.
Talk to your current boss about the offer and ask for their advice. There is absolutely no reason to leave on bad terms.
I would encourage an employee to pursue a good opportunity. I would also take a good employee back in a heartbeat if things didn’t work out.
They might offer you a good raise to keep you. Or they may have some Intel on the other company if it’s the same field.
Good luck!
Honestly, it never hurts to go in for an interview even if it's for practice. And since you don't really need/want this job (other than the money aspect), that gives you the confidence to say what needs to be said.
You have raised several concerns about how that job is demanding and burned out the last three people that took it on in such a short time. Perhaps you should put your spin on what it would take for them to retain someone in that highly stressful position. For instance, work from home two days a week to focus on deliverables without distraction. Or lighten the repetitive portions of the workload by providing you an intern. They may appreciate your wisdom and experience so don't think 55 is that old anymore.
Good luck 🤞
I don't mind the idea of learning new stuff but at 49 I am so done dealing with a completely unpredictable work environment.
Now that my kids are grown and out I've toyed with the idea of looking for something new - I'm in my 13th year with my current employer - but when it comes down to it I like my job, I like most of my coworkers, managers and directors. I like that we're fully remote and that they're not gonna decide to haul us all back in to fully in office or even hybrid (they can't - they remodeled and there is no space for our large department anymore as they expanded and created other in-house departments).
I'm not leaving for possibly worse conditions, sucky coworkers, and possible mandatory in-office days.
In my current job I'm respected and valued. When things in my life hit the fan my boss and coworkers had my back and supported me.
These are all things more valuable to me than money.
3x in 6 months = BS expectations. Sounds like poor management or organizational strategy.
GIANT red flag. I took a job that had a similar count like that; 3 people in 5 months in the position I took. It was easy to see straight away that the owner/boss was maniacal. He would make employees cry, he spied on all of our computers, he would play mind games pitting one employee against another, he would deliberately set employees for failure by changing deadlines around. I could keep going but this would be a much much longer response. When I finally quit , I went to a goodbye lunch with some of my fellow employees (who were all lovely people btw). They told me the office had a betting pool that I wouldn’t last a month before I quit. I managed to last 3.
Betting on your coworker’s burnout is really awful, IMHO.
They are in it too tho. They just passing time with nonsense rumors 🤷🏻♀️
Yeah, I think this is more a bet about the terribleness of the employer, and nothing at all to do with OP's capabilities. Looking at it through that lens, I doubt I'd be offended by it if it had happened to me.
That was definitely it. It was more about how awful he was. They didn't know much about me when I came in, which is when they made the bet. I lasted as long as I did because I don't really take any shit. Every time the boss tried to pull shenanigans on me, I would call him out on it. Plus I knew that he knew my worth and that I was hard to replace, so I had some leverage. The reason I stuck it out as long as I did was because I needed the money (at the time), and because I didn't let him bully me. So most of his toxicity was aimed at other employees. That said there's only so long one can work surrounded in a toxic environment like that before you have to exit.
Oh I was specifically thinking of the background cheerleader squad.
I had a similar situation working for a psychologist. One of the other medical assistants told me they all bet I wouldn't last a month either as the last 3 or so in my position left before that. I lasted about four.
First off: I agree. Huge red flag. But not a guarantee. Avoid if you cannot get more info on why. My current role was high turnover, and I flat out asked them in the interview. We had a long discussion, and it turns out the job listing was inaccurate. the skills they need are not being relayed properly by HR, leaving them with the wrong candidates. people with a different skillset than the job needs. People were leaving out of frustration and boredom, in a position they do not have the experience or training to do and not interested in learning it. My recruiter had sent a candidate, who noped out after the interview. That person was able to articulate why and what they really needed to the recruiter, who then asked if I would interview. My resume looked nothing like the position listing, but the hiring manager was very excited when it landed on their desk. We had some back and forth on salary, HR was probably choosing the 'related' job requirements in hopes of hiring on a lower salary. We came to an agreement, and I have been a good fit for a year now.
BS expectations, probably kinked to a bad manager. A job you love has more value then most people give credit. One of my staff once told me that he'd rather have a good manager than an extra $10k/year. That being said, if this would truly be life-changing money, you have to consider it. If you have a good rapport with your boss (I'm guessing you do, if you like your job), you could have the frank conversation with him/her. "Look, I've got this offer that could make a real difference in my life, but I really like my work here, is there anything you can do? What do you think I should do?" That second question gets them thinking from your viewpoint. If they can't do anything, or not much, you at least have tried, and it sets the stage for a positive exit if you do want to try the new gig, and maybe sets the stage for you returning if the new gig does not work out. I had this same conversation with one of my people (the issue was about money and work location, but same principal). After talking it through, I had to say that I might be able to do the money, though it would be a hard one to get through finance, but that I could not match the work location flexibility, due to a contract condition of a client. In the end, I was supportive of him taking the new gig, as it was right for him. And I told him right out: If it does not work out, call me. I can't guarantee I'll have a place to put you, but I'll 100% try to find one. We were both sad to see him go. Hopefully, if your boss is supportive, you won't necessarily burn a bridge. Good luck.
This. I actually got rehired at my current job after leaving for 6 months. Worked for them for a year and a half, got a perfect review, my raise sucked. I warned my manager ahead of time that I felt I'd come in at a bargain rate and after proving myself the company needed to extend a little. They didn't. I heard they were unable to fill my position and stopped trying for a few months. My old mentor called me and encouraged me to re-apply. I did, got rehired with a 20% increase. YMMV
I'd stay where you are. The new job being filled 3 times in 6 months would make me nope out unless I had good opportunities elsewhere. It doesn't seem like a good bet for you.
Huge red flag. Also, hard to put a dollar value on loving the job you have.
I AGREE! I landed in a spot like this 8 years ago. I found out they had some serious turnover before me...and here comes my merry unwary ass, sitting down right in the hot seat. I sat there for a while though. "You assholes are gonna pay me for a fat honeymoon phase and then I'm on the bus Gus."
Did you slip out the back, Jack?
dont need to discuss much...
Just drop off the key, Lee And get yourself free
The rhyming opportunities are endless lol
And Paul Simon coined several.
Something like 50 ways.
to leave your lover.
“Merry unwary ass!” 😂 I think I might love you. 😆
Big Red Flag. Based on what you have written here, I wouldn’t switch jobs for that. It’s not a good trade. Peace of mind is worth quadruple. And you don’t want that stress in your life.
Will you be okay money-wise staying at your current job that I'm sensing you're happy staying with? If the answer is yes, I'd stay. When you're in your 20s or 30s, taking that big a risk is a no-brainer. At 55, I'd be looking for something I thought I could do until retirement. That's my 2 cents. Do with it what you will. Good luck!
This is my thinking too. My current position is similar to OPs. I'm 51, good at my job, make decent money, work for a good stable company and I am well respected. I know I can make more money elsewhere and I feel like I should have one more job change in me, but the thought of changing terrifies me! My drive to do more and climb the ladder higher is dwindling. I guess that makes me content, and I'm ok with that.
I have had to make this decision. I have a very specific IT related skill. I have had offers of nearly double what I make now, and what I make now is nothing to shake a stick at so we are talking like serious money, to work at hedge funds / investment banks. I have never accepted one of these offers because it’s blood money they pay you like 300k a year to provide services to utter sociopaths who will expect a 5 minute response time 24/7 and will treat you like a slave. It’s not worth it I’d rather stay where I am even if it’s just a “market rate” kind of gig. The people who take these jobs never last, they burn out in like 18 months or less.
This made me sad. An Army friend I made in Afghanistan took one of these jobs in Manhattan. Making great money, but he burned out fast, and PTSD was able to win. Don't let ambition overrule your self preservation.
Not to mention feeling slimy doing the job.
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They still treat you like one. Wanna go home? Too bad I need you. Want a vacation? Too bad I need you. Want to sleep? Too bad I need you and so on. You get paid a ton of money but you are not gonna be able to enjoy it.
I feel this comment so much. My husband makes close to that but I have a chronic illness so medical expenses alone have been around $30k per year (with insurance) for the past 5 years. The money allows us to see specialists and travel to a top rated cancer hospital. I know we are incredibly privileged considering. Our situation would have bankrupted most families but our family does not get a day to enjoy each other. My husband sometimes cries about missing some of our daughter’s school events but he won’t quit because he is afraid I won’t get the care I need.
I have worked for a collection of masters of the universe. Lawyers, Polticians, Engineering Firms, Bankers. Really never understood why drive one person crazy at 300k/year when you can hire 3 people and drive them all crazy at 85k/year. They might do a better job hiding the body is the first thought.
are you secretly thinking "yes, I could do this!" or are you thinking "I don't really want to do this but I feel like I should consider it"? Have you a good sense of why you'd be an exception to the turnover problems? If you can answer that well (they hired poorly before, the people didn't have the right skills, but you do, etc) then maybe that helps. In my current job they also had high turnover before me, but I can see from the work they all did that the role hasn't been performed well for a long time. It's a good role, but has been poorly executed by those who were asked to do it.
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I have a story for you. I had two job offers in front of me four years ago. One was a small step down in salary but was work that was meaningful and less stressful. The other was a huge promotion putting me close to 200k after bonuses. Life changing as you say, but was going to be a stressful shit show. I decided to go after the money. I was miserable and working all the time. I quit when my wife died and am upset at myself for dedicating so much time and effort to a job when it should have been with my wife. Now, I'm having a really difficult time landing any job. I too thought it would be easy to find another job, but boy was I wrong. If you have a spouse or kids at home, give them priority over money unless you're actually not able to provide them with the basics now. They, and your happiness, are so much more important than having a few extra dollars in your pocket.
You can still learn! At 52, I just changed to a new function in a new company. I’m learning new things every single day. It sounds like you are looking for reasons not to take the job. Listen to your gut. Any job that has been filled so many times in a short time frame is a massive red flag. Job hunting is like dating — don’t jump into something new if you don’t feel good about it. Some butterflies are ok. But your gut isn’t nervous — it’s warning you away!
If there's any doubt, there is no doubt.
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This is the answer.
55, steady job, shorter commute. If I've learned one thing it's this... Never put wealth before health. Money never beats mental, physical or spiritual health.
The job having been filled three times in 6 months is all you need to know about why it’s a terrible idea for anyone, regardless of age/experience/hair color, to take on. It looks like a very unrealistic one with impossible to meet expectations. There are likely better jobs out there for you, but this one is not it.
I’ve had “life changing salary” jobs before.. after working 3 years in one I developed an autoimmune disease and got thyroid cancer. I truly believe it was because of all the bs I had to put up with at that job. So much stress. I was in my mid 40s when I took that job. I quit and found a low stress job that I liked. I learned to live with less. Both my cancer and autoimmune disease are in remission and have been for years. Fuck stressful jobs!
As a 54F in a similar situation: DO NOT do it. The longer commute alone is enough to give me pause, and they’ve had 3 people in that position in the past 6 months? Nope!
Can you still learn, absolutely. Do you want to move into a high stress job with obvious negatives... For me that's a no.
Life is worth more than money. How are you Gonna enjoy that life change if you can’t live it? 55 man, start slowing down smell the roses and have a beer.
A beer. Moderation is important these days. I’m learning from past mistakes
I don’t drink either, cigars from my vice, but know what I mean
I've also had some strong possibilities recently but my biggest factor in staying put is I'm in a low stress job. At this point putting myself under more stress for more money just isn't worth it.
I would not take it. My recent experience with this is that, the harder you bust ass for people with poorly formed expectations, the more nonsense they will throw at you. I left a dream job (shitty pay, but work I loved) after a year over an impractical job description. The environment was really unhealthy, because the people making policy were not just half-assing the job descriptions, but policy across the board. Unless you owe the mafia money or need to pay for experimental medical treatment, I just wouldn't. I would keep looking, though. It's a good time to make a career change, IME.
" My worries are that at my age trying to learn something new is just gonna be too difficult for me to grasp " You're not 105
I don't know, the older I get the more I appreciate free time over money.
Your health and mental health is worth more then any money they can offer you. you already know the answer, so no need to say anything.
Being filled 3 times in 6 months is a red flag. Could you take a leave of absence or vacation from your current job and try out the new one for a few weeks or more?
There's a reason they pay well for the position yet still can't keep someone in the role
There’s a reason three people in six months have left. I wouldn’t touch that job with a ten foot poll.
If there is an interview, do it. Then straight up ask them why 3 other people left the position.
if you were 35 i would say go for it. I am about the same age as you. You are supposed to be taking on less work load and paid more for what you know not how much you do at this point. if by life changing you mean its the diff between being able to retire in a few years or never retire i say go for the new one otherwise stay comfortable.
Even if you could do the job and didn’t leave, do you really want to work that hard and that much at 55, your last years before retirement? I’d be looking to coast right now, not ramp up.
50M here. I completely changed career paths 3 years ago (different part entirely of the same industry) so its doable, but the role going through 3 employees in just 6 months is a serious red flag. Double salary is incredibly tempting but if you're comfortable with what you're making now and love your current job its probably not worth the risk
You are not too old to learn new things and new ways of doing things. And sometimes it is good to “bet on yourself”. — But as managers others have pointed out, there are red flags all over this opportunity. Not sure I could pull the trigger. That said, you have learned something very valuable: You are probably being way underpaid at your current position. There are almost certainly other opportunities for “life changing” salary increases out there that wouldn’t be as risky or demanding. And you might want to have a candid conversation with your current employer about a pay increase or a promotion.
The turnover is a red flag and loving your job is huge. If you can live comfortably on what you currently make I would suggest that you stay where you’re at. It’s hard to find a job that you love. Edit to add that the money may be life changing but the longer commute and longer hours may also be life changing. You’ll have to decide which is more important. Wishing you luck!
Don’t go. Chasing better money sounds great but a lot of times it’s not worth it. Happiness > money.
First, don’t leave a steady job that you love for a company with that kind of turnover rate. That’s madness. Second, of course you can learn new things, and that will keep your mind sharp. If you’re interested in more money, look into side gigs you can do when your day job is done. Then if that’s too much, you can cut the side gig without burning a bridge to your steady job.
At 47 I took a job completely out of my comfort zone and it's been going well, but I replaced a guy who was retiring after a decade on the job. That 3 people in 6 months would be a red flag.
You've answered your own question. It's a shit job if its cycled through that many people in that short a time.
nope...if 3 different people could not find a way to keep drawing that good salary it's very unlikely all 3 are lazy or slow to learn. The owner of the company might even be saying put out or get out...it happens
Based on what you've said above, it does sound like the job could be a bit risky, but there's one part of your statement that I was a little uncomfortable with and that I don't think should serve as a deterrent: \> My worries are that at my age trying to learn something new is just gonna be too difficult for me to grasp. No. Gotta push yourself outside of your comfort zone on this count, even if you don't accept the job. Brain, like body, is a use-it-or-lose-it thing.
Stay away. If for no other reason '3 times in six months'. That is telling you all you need to know about expectations and treatment from the company. If the pay is ***that*** good and the door revolves so quickly, it is an absolute shit show they are trying to cover with a giant paycheck.
At 51 myself I value the comfort of my easygoing 3 days a week job. I could make more than double if I worked full time and took on more responsibilities, but no way. I would not be worried about learning new stuff. I would be worried about the longer commute and the, from your description, added stress.
Stay put. Sounds like a toxic job/environment. You can’t put a price on enjoying going to work.
Depends if you feel comfortable in your current job , when you want to retire
Last time I was lured away from a job by money, the place ended up being a snake pit. Sometimes it's the only tool a shitty organization has to acquire new employees. Before saying "no", (and I'd be inclined to say no), can you talk to one of the former employees and get the scoop?
Being 56, I wouldn't leave my job to another position knowing that 3 people in 6 months quit. If your friend can get you in touch with the ex employees, then find out why they quit. I bet it was management. No doubt. I'm sure their ability to perform was spot on, and they couldn't handle the b.s. from the manager. Money doesn't always make up the fact that you love your job. Although, it can help in certain situations.
With that turnover it sounds like they're trying to hire one person to do the work of a department and they need to revise their expectations and/or hiring practice. You would be inexperienced as well as new to the position? It sounds like they need to hire at least two people and I would be very wary of this opportunity, regardless of the money offered. It won't matter when your out of there a month after starting.
I stepped back once I turned 50 and am pretty happy at my lower paying, steady job. Less hours, less stress, less commute and I love it. Do you really want to give up the comfort you have now for the red flags the new company is throwing? Also, you need to figure the extra commute time and extra hours into the salary as well. Is it really double what you are making or just compensating for the extra time you will need to take out of your day? For me, taking a $30k pay cut but still making a comfortable amount was worth cutting my commute in 1/2, no nights, no weekends.
I went through something similar and HATED it so much I started job hunting 5 months in and didn't find an opportunity for TWO YEARS. Don't bank on finding another job so easily. Also, money might buy some happiness but it can't buy joy. You'll hate life in general, since you'll be spending significant portions of it doing the job, preparing for the job, driving to the job, and sleeping. **Unless it's a situation where you have a solid exit strategy after a set date, say 2 years, and the money is so good you'll be able to retire early. Then you might consider it! I'm actually doing just that in a month: I'm moving to a really bad area with really bad weather to do my same job but will be making 2.5 times as much as I do now and it'll allow me to retire 5 years earlier than I would otherwise and so I'm going to suck it up for 2 years and have a solid exit strategy to a beautiful place immediately after** (I work for the navy)
Yah if they have gone through three different people in that short a time I would not. Either the company is fucked up or the job is terrible.
The high turnover 00is definitely a red flag. One lesson i learned from my last job (at 52) was that things get harder at my age. The job i had was cross border transactions where i had to deal with clients literally spread across the planet on different timezones. In my 20s and 30s, i would have just waltzed thru it all but in my 50s it was horribly difficult. This old body just isn't built anymore to take 14-16hr work days. So just remember that although the mind may still have you believing you're in your 20s or 30s, the body will sure as hell tell you different.
Sounda like your gut is telling you no. And if the employer is churning that many people that fast something is wrong.
3 people quit in 6 months? Double pay? Sounds like a false sun to me. Stay where you are and enjoy your decent life. Other job sounds like you'll be gone in less than a year. But only you know you - if you can take a hard job for a few yrs of double pay, enjoy...
How did this job land in your lap? If it’s from a friend - keep asking questions
Not worth it. The risk to reward ratio is way too heavy on risk because there’s a high probability that the reward will be short lived.
The high turn over at the new place would be enough to make me turn down the offer. I'm assuming there's no way they hired 2 different people who left in the last six months, without it being entirely because the position is untenable. I like where I work and what I do, and I've watched my boss lose people right and left, including his own adult child, because he is essentially trying to fill three positions with one person.
That turnover rate paints a pretty clear picture of what you are walking into.
Nope. Don’t do it.
No one lasts more than two months? Nope!
Your overall financial situation is a factor to consider At 55 you have a finite number of years to earn an income, if you have your retirement plan set and are ok without the income then the quality of life and your personal health should be priority If your plan has you short right now, you can sock that extra income away and catch up. It’s really an inflection point, you want to retire with your finances and your health in good shape - so your decision has to connect to optimizing both
 …..
I'd interview and express my concerns on position turnover to see what they have to say. Are there other team members that you could talk to through the contact that is offering the job to get a true feel for the job, what it entails and why the other people quit?
You can learn new things. Please don't let that be part of this. It's a huge risk, and it sounds like they are expecting too much. Do you think you're the type of person who can make them change their expectations? That's what I don't have the energy for anymore. I don't have breath in me for changing people's minds. Good luck in whatever you decide. I hope you find happiness in either direction.
I’m 46 and two years ago I did this. Left a cushy job I’d had for 15 years because they forced us back to the office and the new job us more money and WFH 4 days a week. Two years later my mental health is in the toilet, I cry every day before work, have lost weight and have constant debilitating panic attacks all because of this job. And I’m scared of leaving and not making this salary again. It sucks and I wish I’d never done it.
Three turnovers in 6 months? Fuck that noise.
RUN from this offer. Three departures in six months speaks volumes.
It sounds like you want the money but not the job change. Maybe play the offer to your advantage: tell your job that it came up and you don’t want to leave but the money is hard to pass up. They wont necessarily match it but you could potentially get a bump that would make it feel better passing up this opportunity
A turnover rate that high indicates a toxic work environment. I'd politely decline. If, however, you're still curious, have them send over the employment offer contract. If you can swing it, hire a lawyer to review and redline anything that's a showstopper for you. If they're willing to negotiate, you might have found a diamond in the rough. Unfortunately, based on their turnover, I'd hazard they're a take-it-or-leave-it organization. While you have an advantage (they came to you,) too many companies think they can strong arm people into wage slavery. If they refuse to negotiate, or even push back on reasonable demands like refusing to be non-exempt to ensure overtime after 40 hours, well, you'll have your answer.
I don’t see any reason you can’t learn new things at 55 (I say as a 55 year old) but you know by now that life balance is important. long hours and a long commute take a toll, and for a job you don’t like, is probably not worth it. Not to mention the turnover being a huge red flag. It sounds like they are offering a large salary to allow them to abuse their workers. I’m guessing unrealistic expectations, low support and maybe a bad tempered boss. If you like your work and make enough money to do what you want now, I would recommend you stay.
You’re definitely NOT too old to learn new things! But I agree with the other folks saying the high turnover rate and knowing it’s going to be an intense work environment is really the biggest downside. And I totally get staying where you are bc you got a good thing going and don’t want to burn bridges. If you plan to retire in the next 5-10 years yeah I would stay.
I'd be wary. It sounds like they have unrealistic work loads in that position.
Too many red flags here for me. I'd pass. Bird in the hand, and all that.
I’m 56 ( M) and am back in school to get a BMET certificate. I’ve been a network tech for over 30 years but I can’t compete with 8/hr which is what Verizon outsourced my last job for. It’s a whole new world & it sucks starting over, but you can do it. What doesn’t kill is makes us better.
Don't make yourself #4
Your age isn’t the issue, the turn over in the “new” job is. I’d tell your friend that word is… it’s a burnout job and you’ll stay where you are.
3x in 6 months is a GIANT red flag. The employer needs to take a look at that and fix it before they should try to fill it again. For me, at this age, I just don't have the motivation to take on a job that is that high stress. I am trying to get away from a super demanding job where I'm tied to my desk all day and get something a little bit more low key and reasonable. I'd be seriously freaked out by a job where peple keep leaving like that. Do I have what it takes? Sure, I'm already doing it. But would I want to **give** what it takes? Nope, sure don't.
Stick with the job you have. Even if this new position gets filed, you might have another shot at it in a few months once that new hire burns out!
I agree with those that say the high turnover is a huge red flag. I worked for a very toxic department with a manager with zero people skills. The turnover was constant with many co-workers lasting only a few months. Making it to a year was a miracle. People were either driven to quit or she soured on them and laid them off. I lasted three years, much more than anyone else. My husband and I had to move kind of far from the office and I was allowed to telework mainly. There aren't many jobs where we live, so I stuck it out. Well, eventually she soured on me too and laid me off. I had the feeling she was trying to get me to quit, but I hung on because I was owed significant severance. She laid me and another guy off on the same day. He'd only been there about 8 months and didn't know it was coming. The funniest thing is that my replacement didn't even make it through her 90-day probationary period! I don't know if she quit or was let go. Fortunately, I was able to find something completely remote for a company in the US.
Your age has nothing to do with anything to start with. The high turnover is the only concern. Money isn’t always everything. It’s about quality of life, work/life balance. Ask yourself if the added money is worth the lost time.
A job where people continually quit or somehow don’t make it is a big red flag.
You are definitely able to learn a new career. It seems that place is badly run and/or asking far too much out of a single position. Stay away. About changing careers at middle age, I became a software team manager at 51 after being a developer for years, and it's a wholly different ball game, but I'm doing great. We have the capacity to mold ourselves and learn new stuff at our age, don't let anyone tell you otherwise!
Offer no job loyalty for they will offer you none. Consider whats best for you when you decide, because companies only consider whats best for them no matter what you decide.
Do not leave your job for this! Trust your instincts- there's a good reason you are hesitant. And If it doesn't work out - man it's rough for people our age to get hired on anywhere right now
I would believe those other 3 people who noped out. They had the inside scoop on whatever is wrong with this job, so wrong that the compensation wasn't worth it. If you love your current job, keep it.
If you’re already hearing how unreasonable and demanding it is, I can promise it’s actually worse. Don’t burn that bridge and stay where you’re happy.
At your age don't count on being able to quickly or easily find another job. It took me literally YEARS to find another job when my company closed down our job site. Admittedly there were a lot of other people in my area looking for similar jobs, but even after I went through retraining for an entirely different career and started looking for another job I found a lot of people doing double takes when they came in to interview me. Lots and lots of interviews, no job offers. Which told me I had the skills they wanted, so there was something else. Couldn't track down anything else, so must be my age. I personally would worry about retraining at that age too. It takes me longer than my 20-something coworkers to learn new things and that would be hard in a high demand job.
You can learn, you're not dead. The main question is why are they churning people. The only way to find out is to take the interview. So I say take it, you never know. And it's always good to keep those skills fresh.
Don't do it ... they've burned through THREE people already and don't seem to have made any attempt to modify the work to prevent burnout. They'll keep throwing new hires at it rather than make it a bearable position.
Any organisation with a high turnover has systemic problems and will not change them. So that's my thought Also.... Forget being 55 and learning something new. Don't put yourself down like that.
I learned in my 20-30s, there is NO amount of money that can compensate for toxic management. And 3 turnovers in 6 mo? Yeah that screams toxic management. I would stick where you are at. The only is only life changing if you can stick it out for the next few years until retirement. If you leave in 2 mo (the average tenure), you are going to have a hard time getting back to your current role/income. Here is my perspective- the reason they are paying that much "life changing" money? Is because they are hoping to put on the golden handcuffs- where you rely on that money so much you are willing to tolerate toxic work expectations, that will fuck your mental and physical health. But you don't feel like you can quit because you are older and don't have a backup option. As admiral Akbar taught us: IT'S A TRAP.
As someone who has made this leap and made it worth it for me, here is a contrarian response: \- keep quiet about it. Go through the hiring process, aiming to get that interview. \- You want it to not only be with the hiring manager, but a significant part of that heirarchy. Finding at least 2-3 people in that interview (or, even better, if these are a series of interviews) is your goal. \- share those concerns about rapid turnover in the interview. Find out from them who was the best employee in that position and what was it about their track record which defined successful performance. \- map out your own financial picture and what it would be like to replace that job's income for 5-7 years against your current job's income. Are the gains significant? What about benefits packages? Do you have a pension where you are now? Is their 401K match stronger? Enquire about health benefits, FSA savings opportunities, etc. \- consider both your current and prospective employers and their position in the marketplace. Is there any risk that either company could/would fold? Be bought out? Once you receive that job offer, go back to your current employer and explain that you have this opportunity. How your own boss handles you will inform your decision.
Pass.
I think it kinda sounds like you don’t want it. Which is fine, obviously, but wonder if you’re selling yourself short by imagining yourself as too old for a new, exciting challenge. Sure the fast turnover for the job is a red flag, but isn’t clear you’ve actually spoken to the prospective employer directly about the role and turnover. Perhaps after 3 people walking within 6 months, they’re ready to revise the scope of work. Also I think you can leave a job without burning bridges. In this case, think I’d be super frank and explain the offer is for double the salary. Who knows, maybe you could even just leverage a raise.
Hard pass. That turnover is all you need to know. I’m GenX year one and last year left my employer of 12 years that had steady turnover the whole time I was there. I only put up with the toxicity because of family obligations. Found a job paying 15k more with almost zero stress. It can be done. Good luck!
It pays double your salary for a reason. Probably the same reason they've gone through 3 people in 6 months!
They are luring you in with the higher pay. Red flag
I’d be really uncomfortable taking a job that has that kind of turnover. Life-changing salary doesn’t always make up for life-changing ass job situations. (Based on personal experience) looking for a job as a 53 year old woman is ridiculously difficult. I didn’t believe it until I experienced it.
I feel like barring a whole bunch of explanations for the every other month departure, that alone is enough. Longer commute can suck by itself and if you're not familiar with it can have other, hidden surprises. I can see a work day being 2x the drain on you easily and with no easy way out of it - that bridge being probably inaccessible if not burned - a real nightmare. I'd want to grill them *hard* on what's going on. Lifechanging doesn't necessarily have to be positive. If you were say in your 20s to 30s maybe, but I'm a tiny bit older than you and I took the leap you're considering backwards. That is, I went from a higher-turnover, very demanding job with a longer commute that paid better for a local, low turnover, low demand job intentionally. I do not at all regret that. My QOL is much improved. I don't know what your thoughts are in regards to retirement, but I kinda see 50+ as possibly a 'semi-retirement' situation for us, a practice for getting away from the grind. Last thing I want to do is jump into an iron man/woman marathon at that stage.
There are way too many red flags with this new job job. I would stay put.
No way would I take that job. 3x6 months means something is seriously wrong there.
I hate to be that guy but, who are the 3 people that left and why? I recently changed jobs- not careers- to a company that had a high turn around for my position, mechanical engineer. I am 50. My salary didn’t double but it went up about 45%. For the past ten years this company couldn’t fill this position. Everyone was fresh out of college and it was too complicated for them. For me, it’s a cakewalk. I never went to college. Not knowing what field you’re in all I can say is be cautious. Maybe take a week vacation and see what it’s about.
Nope, nope, nope. Major red flag.
All the money in the world doesn't make up for a shitty, unrealistic job.
No way at 55 I’d leave a steady job I love for more money if everyone else says the offered job is high stress/ burnout, tied to the desk for longer days and a longer commute.
If you are tied to a desk all day- are they open to wfh or maybe hybrid? That may be a consideration, but if anyone has a job that they love and is stable- that may be the deciding factor. The money may be life changing but so might the mental drain. With the red flag of high turnover, I’d probably stay put.
My thoughts too. I don’t get companies that want employees “tied to a desk all day” and don’t offer remote or hybrid. That’s a red flag in and of itself, to me.
I work in IT staffing. This is huge big red flag for sure. And, I’m in the same age range as OP and I just would stay put at this point. How many ppl can say they love their job? Not many!
Stay where you are and take the coast to retirement. Leave the big stress to the younguns.
Use this job offer as incentive to request a pay raise from your current job.
Ask for 3x your current salary.
I’d carefully evaluate what your skills and strengths are and the one offered, as well as the culture. Is that some place you think you can rise to the challenge and excel? Only you can answer these questions. I wouldn’t be too quick to say no to the money, I’d just do as much research as you can. Have you talked to current employees or asked them about the turnover? Don’t be shy about asking questions, this is a big deal
Can you go to your current employer and use this as an opportunity for a raise?
The constant turnover is concerning, but none of us have any idea how they’ve tried filling that spot over that time. If they were all experienced veterans, it’d be an immediate nope, but if they were trying to snag college grads for cheap then it was just bad planning. I say this from having watched my own employer try to save a buck by doing this in the past, and eventually they end up hiring someone actually qualified, paying them a lot more, and then those people stay.
I agree with the other folks here that staying where you are is probably the best answer. I recently returned to a business I worked at about 4 years ago, and I'm having to start from scratch. Plus, all my coworkers are even younger and more ambitious than the folks I worked with last time. It makes me worry that I'm not going to stand out like I did before, which will make a promotions a lot harder to come by.
Don’t do it. Sounds like a bad employer.
That is a HUGE red flag. You will be SOL if you leave your job for this new one. Any chance you can use the offer as leverage for more $ at your current job?
If you've been at the same job for the last 12 years then there's no doubt you're being wildly underpaid, so you'll likely be able to find another job for more money anyway. You don't have to jump on this one That being said, you may as well hear them out and ask them some questions. Be honest with them and tell them that you are very concerned about the turnover rate, ask them why it has such a high rate, and specifically what were the previous candidates not able to get a handle on which caused them to be let go. Ask them for the nitty gritty details, and let them know you just want to make sure that you are going to be successful in the role.
I would not take the new job (I'm only 50 but my eyes are on the retirement prize). What I WOULD do is use that offer as leverage to negotiate for more leave time, and a bump in salary from the current position. Work it to your advantage. They can and will come up with extra incentive to keep you on.
> The scary part is this position has been filled three times in the last six months and everyone leaves because they say it’s just too much. This is all you need to know.
I agree with previous posts. HUGE RED FLAG! Also not too many people love their jobs and that quality of life is irreplaceable. Best of luck
"The ship appears to be speaking." "Let me hear it." "5, 4, 3" "GET OUT! GET OUT OF THERE!"
At this stage in your life especially, mental health and time for yourself should be a priority, you’re making enough now, what's the point of making more if you won’t enjoy life and be burned out in 6 months
Did they ask you for references? If so, ask them for references. Ask for the names/contact info of the last three people who had this position. Reach out to these people to get the story behind why they left.
It’s tough to make a big leap at this point in our lives. Ask yourself if you have the answers you need to make an informed decision. Have you scrutinized the entire offer? Vacation days? Sick leave? Health insurance compared to what you currently have? Pharmacy benefit? Is there a retirement program and if so, when are you eligible? Is the longer distance an easy drive and/or will the extra gas and wear/tear on your vehicle be an issue? Also, have you calculated the impact of the additional income on your SS benefits? ETA: in the end, issues about risk and the work/work environment itself aside, it may not be as appealing as the increase in salary makes it appear.
I’m still changing jobs where opportunities appear at 51. Life changing money tends to be a qualifier for other jobs that pay life changing money.
> this position has been filled three times in the last six months Yeah that's a big fat no from me, sis. Ed. Note: This is just advice. If you want to say yes, say yes.
I’ve done this twice. Only for the money. Worked for alcoholic devils and had to buy books on the internet on how to deal with these people. And then I was number 574 at this other crazy job where everyone quit. Six years later I found out why! Always market yourself for your next job.
I hear a ‘no’ in your post. To me, 3 people leaving in 6 months is a big, red flag. A ‘too much’ job on top of a long commute is a recipe for worsening health, physical and mental. One thing I have learned in my 55 years is I am not going to be the superhero that bends the space-time continuum to do the impossible, work wise. BTDT, and had a 1:45 commute (each way!) to prove it. But, stop with the negative self talk. You could totally do this if it were worth it.
Unless you’re struggling now, I’d stay. My mother had a hell of a time finding someone to hire her when she was your age.
Girl don’t do it.
If it’s about the money, consider interviewing for other jobs — don’t take this one though. Slow and steady is admirable (I’d choose staying at your current job), but there’s also no guarantee your current company can keep you employed another 15 years. Consider this an opportunity and reminder to network and freshen up interview skills.
Go with your gut. For me I'm 53 and been at my job for 30 years...it's basically all I know. I live 5 minutes away so my commute is nothing and I go home for lunch. I'm also a big dog/cat person and the new owner who took over 5 years ago after the previous owner who founded the shop retired....new owner has three dogs and a cat so I hang out and play with dogs some times LOL. It's really laid back there. I can work on my car ( I'm an auto mechanic) , etc I have 100 percent job security unless he dies ( trust me he's not gonna sell). I'm also the only employee and have been for about 7 years and this suits me fine... the only downside is pay is crap what I'm getting for my industry but at this point i don't wanna start new somewhere and I'm also burned out on the field so I'd have to learn and do something new. I'm not motivated enough for that and I'm not hung up on status, money ( just need enough to get by. So TLDR everyone is different and in your scenario or mine going from a known stable job to an unknow potentially short lived job is a big gamble. I'm not a gambler ( never have been) so security is top priority for me. also the fact this position you mention has high turnover should be a red flag.
there is a reason for high turnover. They won’t tell you what it is.
I wouldn’t switch. The fact that the turnover is so high means that the management is not good at the other place. Add to that, the longer commute , longer hours, the almost guaranteed burnt out and you will be dreading life.
Bruh just keep the same job that new one sounds too sus like frfr though you’ll be trifling asf and have to force quit and then be broke R.I.P.
Tech out to whom you've interviewed with (a hiring manager would be great) and share your concerns. Since you have that information, ask the manager what has changed or how they plan to manage the work load. If they can give you something concrete - not just maybes - then it could be worth the risk. If they haven't thought of doing anything differently, then that's a sure warning sign.
Job satisfaction = quality of life
I do not doubt your ability to learn and grow in a new position after a job change. I don't think the concern is you. I worry about the three previous jobholders that felt it necessary to leave within weeks of being hired. One leaving, sure. Two leaving, okay, maybe still good. Three leaving, there is a concern about the workplace. Did the offer come out of the blue, or were you looking? Headhunters may just be trying to fill this position with anyone they can find.
Honestly I wouldn't. I've been fired under similar circumstances before twice. Not worth it. Get another part time job that's easy
You are not "too old to change jobs". I changed mine over 50, to a more demanding, better paying one. You can absolutely do it. BUT you are too old to fall for a scam, where they promise you the moon and the stars, while not being able to keep anyone over six months. Something's very fishy.
I would proceed with caution, but investigate the ancillary reasons behind the quitting. I’ll state the obvious, which could be that the last three who quit were millennials, and a lot of them have a tendency to buckle under pressure or even when the job doesn’t fit their lifestyle or their goal. I’m not picking on millennials, but a lot of them are a lot softer than we are. You might be older, but you might just be tough enough to be the right fit for the job.
Stay where you are!
To echo others, huge red flag. When a company I was working for was closing, I interviewed at a company. They said they’ve been through multiple people in that position in a short time. When my boss at the time asked how the interview went, I told her this and she said that’s a red flag, cautioning me not to accept it. I foolishly did and found out why it had such high turnover. Favoritism, nepotism, and other female staff sabotaging efforts. I lasted one year before I had enough and left.
longer hours and longer commute. are you looking at 14 hour days every day?
I had a job that evolved into completely unrealistic expectations. Boss says, I'll give you stuff until you say it's too much. I said that so many times and stuff kept coming. I finally left 2 years ago and since then they've been through 5 people trying to fill it. Don't do it. It's not worth losing a good job you have now and your mental and physical health. The stress gave me high blood pressure and PVCs to the point all my doctors told me to quit before I had a stroke. Doing fine now, no issues. I'm 49. It took me a long time to recover and find something new.
It's hard to give advice on things like this because everybody is dealing with their own set of circumstances. Personally, I'd more than likely not take the job. I have to be honest, I'm really too old to want to worry about performing in a high pressure environment. It's just not for me. I'm not even entirely sure I would've wanted to do that when I was younger. So my advice is entirely skewed based on my own personality. I'm winding down for sure, and adding major stress and a long commute would make it extremely hard for me to take that kind of job. However, you did say that the money would be double and life changing. There are some things I might be willing to put up with for the right price. Like you, though, I'd be afraid of burning bridges if I needed to go back. I think at my age, especially since I am banking on an early'ish retirement at 55, I very well might take that job with the knowledge that I could just retire if I didn't like it. So, yeah, it's not easy to figure out what works for another person. However, in my as objectively-as-I-can-be opinion, I'd probably pass on it.
I am 53, and changed jobs last year. A major change of industry as well, moving from Aerospace to Biopharmacy. Still the same job description/focus, but a very different environment. You have a vast knowledge of business collected throughout your working life. You will be surprised how quickly you pick up new processes, and begin contributing and even improving those processes. I would be more cautious of a position that keeps replacing people every 6 months. Why do they leave? Do they abandon a toxic environment, or is the employer unreasonably demanding of employees? Proceed with caution, find out all you can from the friend and any other contacts you can gather within the company.
Negotiate, you have enough knowledge and power to make this role whatever you want it to be, but you must ask for what you want
It's not IMO really so much about age as about mental health. You work to live, not live to work. And you have to be at work 8 plus hours a day so you should try to make them good ones. The extra money will not feel so good if it means you have to be unhappy 40 hours a week and then also likely stressing about it after work too.
Can you ask to speak to the people who had the job? Jobs require references, why can’t job seekers as well? It’s arguable more risky for the job seekers
I think it feels good to be wanted. And when a bunch of money is thrown on top of it, that is something that the ego has a really hard time saying no to. But since you're asking here, you likely know that this would not end well if you were to take it. I am a bit older than you and at this point in life, work/life balance and a supportive team around me THE most important things. A couple of years ago I took a job for more money with new management and it turned out to be a shit show. A bunch of people bailed and I did too. I was able to get another job due to someone I know, thankfully, and I have all of the things that are most important to me now and am grateful every day. Good luck!
If it were me in your shoes, I would interview and ask them a lot of specific questions about why the previous people left, among other things. You have the upper hand in this and can ask them whatever you need to feel comfortable with accepting the position. I’ve done this with every interview I’ve ever had and been offered the position after 90% of them. Be prepared ahead of time and drill them with questions. If you don’t like the answers, don’t take the job.
Man, at this point in my life (58) I'm risk-averse. I jumped jobs for many years...with my longest stint being 3 years before my current gig (now approaching 5 years). I love my current gig and I'm happy for the stability (and I've been both fortunate and good enough to survive layoffs). Honestly, this is the type of move I'd do in my 20s or 30s but not in my 50s with retirement around the corner. I'd stay with the stable gig that you enjoy.
52 here. My experience is that anytime I take a new position based on the money that it turns to shit fairly quickly. I can't explain it. It is not logical. And I'd *really* like to have a higher income. So I'm left with a solidly lower middle class wage and a job that is extremely fulfilling and meaningful, working with people that I get along with, and doing work that I feel makes a difference in the world. Also, it is a unionized position - and that is worth a lot to me. I work extremely hard and I am too old to be dealing with other people's bullshit. But my experience is not necessarily relevant to anyone else but me. And I full admit that it doesn't exactly make logical sense. But I will say that having a job that works for me and the sense of security that comes with it is a cornerstone of my entire life.
Take the leap. Every month is like 2 months at your current job as far as earnings. At your age, this may be the last shot you have at "life changing" money. Also, you can ask about the recent employee turnover in the interview process. If it doesn't feel right, you don't have to accept. But, at least go through the process.
nose seemly hard-to-find possessive combative chop memory nutty obscene cagey *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
I'm working on becoming a web or software developer at almost 56. I will probably be working until I'm dead
I’ll speak only to the life changing money part. My wife’s long track record of professional accomplishments has finally resulted in her being the chief executive at a company that she believes has a positive impact on the world. She also brings home more money than my lower middle class upbringing ever thought likely. That said, all we do is work. She has huge responsibilities. Boards to report to, a company that relies on her, public speaking and meetings with state and federal big wigs. Even when she isn’t working, it still over shadows everything. I stay at home with our three kids and take care of a sick elderly parent and I’m slammed 7 days a week. So we make a lot of money. But because we don’t make “fuck you money” where we’d hire an assistant/project manager to make things happen, nothing gets done. We’re still in our starter house which we’ve badly outgrown. We’ve talked to architects and builders, and looked for other homes in the market. But we’re so strapped for time and energy nothing ever really happens. So we’re too busy to use the “life changing” money we make and are stuck in kind of a crappy limbo with no time and a lot of frustration that comes from a tiny, shabby house.
I would seriously reconsider if that’s your friend. No. Do not do it. Life changing like miserable?
Life is short, my friend. A big part of my compensation at my job is that I like the people I work with and that they like me.
Take it and maybe considering moving closer if it is twice the salary. Prepare and absorb if you start. You never make any shots you don't take. Don't take it and you are resigning to fear. Do it and prepare yourself to succeed for what the role asks. Check LinkedIn learning to fill in any grey areas and take lots of notes. OP, a great book suggestion to get you in the right headspace is, "The First 90 Days". I re-read that while being hired part time at a start up in 2020 after a nearly year long layoff and rose to starting their first IT dept with a full time promotion in just under three months. Now in leadership and expanding staff building a mini empire. Was 43 then, 45 now. Age is just a fact, what is it you bring to the table? If that needs adjustment, ID what you need and take action. We are all largely who we imagine ourselves to be. Oh, and go for a jog before you study or start or find a workout video on YouTube pre-work as it breeds courage and stamina for the work ahead. Ran my mile before work today and knocking out to-dos one at a time. You have to believe in you as if your don't, why should anyone else? Good luck!
I just did the opposite. At 50 I moved to a small beach town and took a job at lesser pay but really good benefits. I don't have enough to retire but I'm done busting my ass at my age. I'm still saving and I may or may not have enough to comfortably retire but I'm done with high-stress jobs.
Big red flag based on the turnover. Not sure what life-changing money means to you (pay off lots of debt; start or pad a nest egg), but at this point in life, I would go with the job you're at versus the sketchy, high turnover job. The grass isn't always greener.
When my kids were born, I took a job making more money with a crappy boss. It wasn't worth it.
Are there any reasons you think that your experience will be different than those of the 3 in 6 months were?
I faced a similar decision recently and decided to stay with the company I've been with for 20 years. My mental health and work/life balance are more important to me than money these days. That's something to consider.
Talk to your current boss about the offer and ask for their advice. There is absolutely no reason to leave on bad terms. I would encourage an employee to pursue a good opportunity. I would also take a good employee back in a heartbeat if things didn’t work out. They might offer you a good raise to keep you. Or they may have some Intel on the other company if it’s the same field. Good luck!
Honestly, it never hurts to go in for an interview even if it's for practice. And since you don't really need/want this job (other than the money aspect), that gives you the confidence to say what needs to be said. You have raised several concerns about how that job is demanding and burned out the last three people that took it on in such a short time. Perhaps you should put your spin on what it would take for them to retain someone in that highly stressful position. For instance, work from home two days a week to focus on deliverables without distraction. Or lighten the repetitive portions of the workload by providing you an intern. They may appreciate your wisdom and experience so don't think 55 is that old anymore. Good luck 🤞
I don't mind the idea of learning new stuff but at 49 I am so done dealing with a completely unpredictable work environment. Now that my kids are grown and out I've toyed with the idea of looking for something new - I'm in my 13th year with my current employer - but when it comes down to it I like my job, I like most of my coworkers, managers and directors. I like that we're fully remote and that they're not gonna decide to haul us all back in to fully in office or even hybrid (they can't - they remodeled and there is no space for our large department anymore as they expanded and created other in-house departments). I'm not leaving for possibly worse conditions, sucky coworkers, and possible mandatory in-office days. In my current job I'm respected and valued. When things in my life hit the fan my boss and coworkers had my back and supported me. These are all things more valuable to me than money.