I work at a lawfirm, paralegal without the title. what to do, read below?

Mrs. Knowit-All

First, be confident in yourself, know what you're worth and do not be afraid of speaking your mind. Remember that attorneys are delegators themselves; so you have to know what you want and how you want it to be convincing. Make a list of the things you currently do, and think about why you really like your job. Is it because you're used to it, grown attached and change is not your thing, or is it because it's truly the road you'd like to take? This will help you weigh in how much growth you will really gain from this position. Now what I see is that if this position is currently not offering benefits then girl go with the one that does. You're 24 years old and not getting younger. Also, technically working for an alderman is not thaaaat far off from the legal field. Although more on the political side, it will actually expand your knowledge of the local government and make it something you can incorporate into your legal career. With all that said....just follow your heart.

Lamont

Give your current employer the chance to counter offer. Just be respectful and say "Look. I like working here but I need this increase. Can you match this?"

Veritas et Aequitas (ï£¿)

Take the extra 4K and benefits.

duhh

Don't worry about loyalty to your current job. They'd drop you in a heart beat if needed. In business, it every man/woman for themselves. Take the money and run.

*rx queen*

If you feel that the other job will be more beneficial, which it sounds like it would be, I would go for it. I also work in the legal field and from experience many legal assistants and paralegals are underpaid. I would do what would be best for you. Also, having benefits is always a plus!

heart o' gold

That's a pretty big payhike, almost 20% plus benefits, which is probably worth another 15-20% - that's a monster increase in compensation.

Write out a list, all the reasons to change, all the reasons to stay where you are.

Don't forget to include distance from work, from lunch spots, where and how your desk is situated, who you will be working with and for as well as the daily duties.

Also, when considering employement, always think of how the steps on your resume will look.

Mr. Saint

Rate the pros and cons. I don't see many cons, but then again i am not in your situation. I would take the 4 k and benefits, it sounds good. I would just make sure that your new job is still something you will enjoy or at least be able to stand doing.

roxxygrrl13

Have you looked around at other law firms as well? I am also a legal asst and have been for about 6 years, 4 at another office and 1.5 here. I left the other firm because the one I am at currently started me out at more than I was getting paid and more than 24K a year. Experience is key in the legal field, so you may be able to find a law firm willing to pay you 28K. If not, consider the new opportunity!

lg304621942

Did you go to school to become a paralegal? You have your credential?
If not your not going to be paid as one. Take the job with the higher pay, but also go to school and get your certificate as a paralegal. You will get a lot more money. 24k a year is chump change a bank teller makes more than that.

Fun N Sun

if you really like the legal field you should think about getting your associate's in Paralegal. I make around $40K with fully paid benefits, bonuses, paid parking and other perks. By the way...im only 29 too

worldstiti

follow the money if you are young

do what makes you happy if you can afford it

Blue Rose

Currently I am also a paralegal/legal assistant/office manager without the certificate. My salary isn't great either but my employers do cover health insurance for me & my husband which is a great help, but I have no where to grow or progress here or in the small community where I reside.
If an opportunity like that knocked on my door I would definitely answer yes.

Stuart

So the question sounds like, "Do I stay at a job I like, or take a different job that pays more but I don't think I'd like?"

Only you can answer this.

- Stuart

[BUMP] Coming July '09

4k does not equate to much more in your pay check. Do the math. But if the benefits are important then go for it.

prettyhole

I would first go to your current employer and state to them that you have been given a chance to earn more money at another law firm and see if they are willing to match what you are being offered. otherwise, you have to look out for what is best for you and go for the other job.

justme24202

do what makes u happy.. moneys not the most important thing.

Mr. Bugsme

If you would really desperately prefer to stay at your current firm, tell the person in charge that that you've been offered a job that pays 4K more and offers additional benefits, but that you'll stay if they match it. You have to be prepared to walk if they say no. Personally, I would just walk and take the new job.

dwalkercpa

take the new job, enjoy the pay and benefits, and expand your experience and exposure. your eyes will be opened to a lot more opportunities.

qtiepie

Well weight it out...

Think about if you like the ppl you work with, the hours, the duties of your job, the commute, the area that the job is located in, and the longjevity that you have had there or think you will have.

Then consider the other position:

Are there ppl you know there? Do you like them? How is the commute? Is the location nice? How are the work hours? What duties or responsibilities would you have there?

Once you have a list of these items I recommend a pros and cons list to even out the odds. It will also help you see everything in black and white!

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