Dear HR,

I was one of the lucky ones who got a permanent job right after National Service. I had been working for almost a year until I was made redundant as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Currently, I am unemployed. For the past 6months I have been applying to some jobs but to no avail.

I recently chanced on an internship opportunity of which I think I qualify for. I read the job description and I strongly believe that I will be considered. But…. the issue is with the allowance. It’s a bit lower than what I used to take at my previous job.

I really need this job but my only worry is the money. It is half my previous salary. Do you think I should apply?

What do I do?

Worried Jobseeker,

Irene

Response from HR

Dear Jobseeker

We understand how you feel. Losing a job is one of the devastating things to experience as a professional. Yet we can assure you that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Ideally, every worker wishes to attain higher heights in his/her career, but life happens.

Losing a job is one of the uncertainties of an employee, yet to every problem there is always a solution. Now to your question. It is never easy to succumb to a lower salary when you are used to taking a higher pay.

It is good to note that although monetary compensation is very important and it plays a vital role in employee engagement and productivity at work, sometimes other non monetary benefits supersede it.

As you mentioned, this new role you are interested in applying for, is an internship opportunity and you have to understand that internships are basically a work experience opportunity employers offer to tertiary students or graduates. This is mostly not paid for, yet there are some organizations who pay interns allowances during their internship periods.

Since you have tested the waters, it is understandable to feel this way. If you are currently unemployed and this job seem to be a perfect opportunity for you, don’t dismiss a job offer because of low pay. You have to reconsider. This may be a stepping stone to better opportunities ahead.

Make no mistake, we are not advocating you accept peanuts but there are exceptions. As a professional, you should always know your worth, never sell yourself short. You are trading your skills and knowledge with potential employers; negotiate for as much as you can get, and walk away if you are not satisfied.

However, as stated earlier, there are exceptional instances whereby taking a lower pay could benefit you eventually. Think about it and apply.

If you decide to look for other employment opportunities you can sign up on Jobberman and seize your next opportunity.

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