Job Hunting and Financial Independence

These past few weeks have been a reminder to both Dad and I about how much we would like to not have to work for someone else any longer.  We’ve both been applying for jobs and interviewing (at multiple places for me).  Trying to do so while working full time has been interesting – I’ve had a lot of slightly longer than usual lunches, or picking up Daughter Person early a few times.  I’ve only applied for 5 positions – and I’ve gotten responses on all of them – phone interviews for 4 already and in person interviews for 2 after tomorrow – but no offers yet.

I’m only applying for positions that are interesting to me, which is why I’ve applied to so few.  I’ve got a well-paying job, that theoretically I like (still not bad after a month, except the whole lacking a 401k thing), so getting me to jump ship is more difficult than it would be if I didn’t have a job.  I have the “luxury” of picking and choosing which offer (if any) I take.

We don’t *have* to work, but that’s only sustainable for one month at most, then at least one of us would need to find something, so we continue to work and make excuses when we need to get away for an interview.  If we had a fully funded emergency fund, we could take off for a bit longer, and not have to work while searching.  One of the primary reasons it’s our first goal now that we’re done putting all of our extra money towards debt (we’re not debt free though). We’re shooting for 3 months of expenses at first (same rate as paying off debt), then 6 months of expenses while contributing more to investments at a 50/50 rate.

Next time something like this happens (because it’s likely), we’ll be ready to walk if we need to.

8 thoughts on “Job Hunting and Financial Independence

  1. plantingourpennies

    Good luck with the interview tomorrow! From my experience interviewing when you’re already at a gig you’re pretty content with is a powerful position to be in. Even if you’re secretly annoyed at the lack of a 401K.

    Reply
    1. Mom Post author

      I think the interview went well, now it’s just waiting to see what (if anything) they offer me and go from there.

      Reply
  2. donebyforty

    I think you’re in a sneaky good position to negotiate once you get a new offer. Even if your current job isn’t a perfect fit, you’ll be able to counter their offers more aggressively than if you had no position at all. Best of luck with the interviews!

    Reply
    1. Mom Post author

      With this particular job, I’m not sure how much negotiating room they have because they’re a university (although a private one). I did give a salary quote to another company that’s about 40k more than I’m making now, and they didn’t bat an eye, so that’s also promising…

      Reply
  3. Mel

    I can honestly say one of the best things my emergency fund ever did for me was allow me to up and take a job in a place I didn’t live anywhere near. I knew I could afford all those upfront fees to rent an apartment and move across the country. It was really terrific. Good luck building yours up and with the job search!!

    Reply
    1. Mom Post author

      We’re hoarding money at the moment, waiting to see what we’re offered – if anything. Although I’m starting to get traction on some jobs here in Northern Virginia as well, which would let Dad stay at his job and continue to vest in his 403(b).

      Reply
  4. Tefffany @ Grad Money Matters

    When I think about interviews, I feel very nervous but when I am on the actual happening, I just show my true self and be relaxed. Interview is really important to see the communication skills and to know about a certain person more.. Good luck! I know you can do it.

    Reply
    1. Mom Post author

      I think they went well – I have several more this upcoming week – mostly phone interviews, but one where they’re trying to find a position better suited for me as well.

      Reply

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