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If you could keep your existing job, but take a pay cut or give up benefits so that you could cut your work week to three days, would you do it? I've recently been looking for a new job, and I'm disappointed by the fact that there a virtually zero jobs in my city that are career oriented, but allow for part-time or flex-time.”

Asked by wantitallmom on 2nd June 2008 | 6 replies

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6 replies so far...

Yes, I would! In a heartbeat. I would love to work part time and have more time with my daughter. Unfortunately, that's not an option at my job.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Mom2Rylie on 3rd June 2008
I think I would take a pay cut as long as I could still bring in enough to help sustain us, but I wouldn't give up benefits unless my husband's jobs' benefits were better.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Melanie (Modern Mami) on 3rd June 2008
Have you considered trying to start your own business on a reduced schedule at your current job? That way, you would be comforted in knowing that you have money coming in the door, but also some free time to start a new business of your own. There are some many network marketing/direct selling companies out there; I'm sure you could find yourself passionate about one of them and then, before you know if, you will be able to quit your current job entirely and life the rest of your life being your own boss. If you are interested in knowing more about the industry and what working in it entails, I would be happy to discuss with your further. Good luck!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Barbara Rinehart on 3rd June 2008
In a word, YES. : ) Good luck in your search!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Amanda on 2nd June 2008
I would - and I've done it twice. A few yars ago, I went from full time to 3 days/week after my third child arrived. I took a 40% pay cut and loved every extra minute with my kids. I got a promotion coming out of that role and went back to work 4 days/week and then full-time. Right now I am changing jobs and planning to work 3 days/week again. This has all been for the same employer, though. I've had to be very vocal about what I want, and I've been very fortunate that they've continued to work with me on meeting those needs. Having said all that, though, I know it is tough to get that type of arrangement when you are looking for a new job. Perhaps you could start full-time and then work towards something more flexible? Good luck!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Jen S on 2nd June 2008
unfortunatly, probably not! i think it would depend on the pay cut/benifit loss ammount AND what it would do to my future career growth. However, in a sort of reverse, i tell my husband that even though he kinda makes a crap salary at his current county government job - the daycare is so outstanding that he is not allowed to leave, even for more money, because we would lose out on the awesome daycare! It really all comes down to what your family can handle... three days a week would be pretty sweet though! i just need to keep the same salary :)

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kate on 2nd June 2008