decision to make

I know no one can make this decision but me but my stomach is in knots and I think I need some input/feedback:

I'm a product analyst right now for Publishers Clearing House (sorry I wish I could hook you all up but I can’t.) I won’t get into too much company bashing so I’ll just say that they’re not doing well and my future here is bleak. I just got a job offer from Macy’s doing basically the same kind of work out of their Herald Square store. The two biggest issues, the most important first:

I just moved to Centereach and would have to commute from Ronkonkoma on the LIRR. Right now I drive to Port Washington so time wise it would not make that much of a difference, except that it’s an extra hour a day! I’ll be out of the house 14 hours a day, at least.

On top of this, the pay is not that much extra. Actually, when I factor in the extra costs such as the commuter tax I come out with slightly less.

There is more opportunity with Macy’s but I am also beginning to think this is not exactly what I want to do with the rest of my life. I’m burying my head in numbers and the computer and I have little interpersonal contact, which I miss. However, not working and going back to school is not an option right now.

My stomach is in knots. I don’t know what to do.

Some questions: Does anyone commute from Ronkonkoma? I know there was a post about this a while ago but I searched and it looks like it was more about parking. How is the commute to Penn? A nightmare?

Also, does anyone know of any positions anywhere in Suffolk County that require product planning, sales forecasting, or similar type analytical skills? I could forward you my resume to give you more info about my background.

Any 2 cents would be appreciated. I have to decide by Monday. Thanks!!

I did the reverse NYC to Ronkonkoma. The commute shouldn't be too bad -- Penn Station is really close to Macys, so if you can get an express the commute shouldn't be too terrible.

But you don't sound too thrilled with the prospect. Are the opportunities for movement once you take the new job enough to outweigh your initial concerns? If so I'd go for it, but if you are hesitating, I'd keep looking. Good luck no matter what you decide! And keep us posted!!

I commute from Ronkonkoma every day and its not tht bad. I take a 7:04 train and im in Penn at 8:15-8:20. The parking at the station can be the tricky part!!

Jenn - if you even have to THINK about it, its not for you. You would have butterflies and not knots if you really wanted this job !

This reminded me of an interview I had a Macy's (Herald Sq) a while back for Assistant Buyer. I winded up chatting with the lady about being SICK of the whole retail world (please dont let ME discourage you, just telling you my story!) and we got into this whole talk about what I really love and maybe retail isnt for me (too many cold people in that field, again, no offense to anyone).
Is this job in the buying offices at Macy's? The lady told me straight out that they (Assistant Buyers) work like dogs, and they work 6 days a week (Saturdays!) and its not a FUN atmosphere. She really told me all this. She was like 'some days I step into the elevator, and its cold as ice from the tension and cold personalities') I felt SOOO GOOD from walking out of that interview. I felt like God sent me there to clear my head ! Shortly after that I left the industry...(the best decision I ever made!)

Anyway, I just told you that story, to say, you should really follow your heart. Think about what is most important to you. I would not commute all those hours, whether I had a baby or not. Look for something closer to home. Even if its a little pay cut, maybe it will give you time to work out (Time for yourself) time to spend doing things you never have time to do. Do you really want this job ? If there is room for growth, do you see yourself doing this commute for MANY years to come ? Depending on if you plan to work once you have children, you may want to find a job that would be a long term commitment for your future lifestyle (as a mom and/or careerwoman)

I have grown so much as a person in the past 5 years, making a career change into the I.T. World (and now making another on into teaching! but i did LOVE I.T. -)

Let us know what you decide.
GOOD LUCK !

Thanks for all your input and support. As you all could read (between the lines) from my post, I don’t think the position is right for me. As shelzyp asked, yes, I am a bit worried about layoffs but I’m still not sure this move is the answer.

question for Lisa Rose (not for this job but in general): I might end up in the city anyway so could you elaborate about the parking situation at Ronkonkoma? Do you need a permit? I would probably wind up taking the same train as you or something around the same time so any info would be great!


Thanks again. I knew I could count on you girls to help me think clearly.