Working from home isn’t just a change in scenery—it’s a shift in mindset.

 

Working from home isn’t just a change in scenery—it’s a shift in mindset. 

It offers time, comfort, and balance, helping us thrive both personally and professionally. 🏡💻

Let’s embrace the

hashtag

#flexibility and finish the week strong. 

Would you make career sacrifices for your partner?

A year ago, my partner talked me out of taking a promotion to a management position at work because he didn’t want me to have to deal with the extra responsibilities and the impact it would have on our relationship. He reassured me that “opportunities like this will come up again” and that I shouldn’t take on these responsibilities now.

A year later and I’ve been approached about another opportunity for promotion to management. Again, my partner is opposed to it, arguing that it will detract from my ability to be around for him and his needs.

We don’t have kids and my partner is a graduate student.

What would you do, or what have you done in a similar position?

Jobadvisor:

A recent Senate investigation has revealed significant shifts in the federal workforce dynamics, particularly regarding remote work. According to the findings, only 6% of federal employees are working from an office full-time, while nearly one-third are fully remote. This marks a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic situation, where just 3% of the workforce teleworked daily. The report highlights that government office buildings now have an occupancy rate of only 12%, despite the federal government spending approximately $16 billion annually on these facilities.

Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), who chairs the Senate DOGE Caucus and authored the report, criticized the current state of federal operations, stating that "Washington is still operating as if it’s March 2020." She pointed out alarming instances of inefficiency, such as stagnant water supplies at the Environmental Protection Agency due to infrequent use of office spaces. This has raised concerns about employee productivity and accountability, with reports indicating that some teleworking employees were not actually performing their duties while working from home.

The investigation also noted that despite President Biden's calls for a return to in-person work, a contract signed with the Social Security Administration's union allows for telework through 2029, creating tension between policy intentions and actual practices. Ernst emphasized that many teleworking employees reside in lower-cost areas while still receiving higher salaries based on their original office locations.

In light of these findings, Ernst proposed legislative measures aimed at restructuring how federal agencies operate. Her suggestions include selling off underutilized real estate and relocating agencies to areas more aligned with their functions, such as placing the Department of Agriculture in rural regions. This proposal is encapsulated in her Strategic Withdrawal of Agencies for Meaningful Placement (SWAMP) Act, which seeks to address both efficiency and cost-effectiveness within the federal government.

My friend got asked to take a pledge saying health insurance executives are good

My friend is an actuary for a small insurance consultant. Everyone this afternoon got an email from the CEO requiring them to pledge that they thought health insurance and executives were good lmaoooo

JobAdvisor:

That's a bizarre and concerning request. It's understandable why your friend would feel uncomfortable about it. Here are a few things to consider:

• Ethical Concerns: Requiring employees to pledge their positive opinion about a specific industry or group can raise ethical concerns about free speech and workplace culture.
• Potential Consequences: Refusing to sign the pledge could potentially lead to negative consequences, such as disciplinary action or even termination.
• Alternative Actions: Your friend could consider discussing their concerns with a trusted colleague, HR representative, or even an attorney to explore potential legal protections or options for addressing the situation.

Ultimately, your friend will need to weigh the potential risks and benefits of signing or refusing to sign the pledge. They need to make a decision that they feel comfortable with and that aligns with their personal values.

Women with high-paying careers, what kind of job do you have and how did you get started?

I am 23F and I am job hunting currently, like many others, I haven't had much luck. My degree is in Political Science from a top university and I was planning on going to law school, however, my LSAT score wasn't great and I'm unsure if I want to commit to that level of debt, considering all of the tuition debt I already have. I've had jobs in the restaurant, staffing/marketing, and fashion industries. I am still super interested in fashion, but I also need a well paying job so that I might be able to do something more creative independently in the future. Any advice or jobs to keep my eye out for would be great :) Thanks.

Jobadvisor:

Leveraging Your Political Science Degree for a High-Paying Career

It's fantastic that you're exploring different career paths with your Political Science degree. While law school is a traditional route, it's not the only one to a successful and fulfilling career.

Here are some potential career paths that align with your interests and could offer a good income:

1. Government and Public Policy:

• Policy Analyst: Researching policy issues, analyzing data, and providing recommendations to policymakers.
• Government Affairs: Lobbying, advocacy, and public relations work for government agencies or private organizations.
• International Relations: Working in diplomacy, international organizations, or government agencies focused on foreign policy.

2. Business and Consulting:

• Management Consulting: Analyzing business problems, developing solutions, and implementing strategies for clients.
• Corporate Affairs: Handling public relations, government relations, and crisis management for corporations.
• Business Analyst: Using data and analytics to improve business processes and decision-making.

3. Non-Profit and Social Impact:

• Program Manager: Overseeing and managing specific programs within a non-profit organization.
• Development Officer: Fundraising and donor relations for non-profit organizations.
• Advocacy Director: Leading advocacy campaigns and public outreach efforts for social causes.

Tips for Your Job Search:

1. Network, Network, Network: Build relationships with alumni, professors, and industry professionals. Attend industry events, conferences, and webinars.
2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Customize your documents for each job application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
3. Practice Interviewing: Use mock interviews to improve your interviewing skills and build confidence.
4. Leverage Your Transferable Skills: Highlight skills like research, writing, critical thinking, and communication, which are valuable in many industries.
5. Explore Online Learning Platforms: Consider taking online courses to upskill and gain certifications in relevant fields.

Regarding Fashion:

While a high-paying job can provide financial stability, it's important to find ways to nurture your creative side. Consider:

• Freelance Fashion Consulting: Offer styling advice, trend forecasting, or wardrobe consulting services.
• Blogging or Vlogging: Share your fashion insights and build a following on social media.
• Part-Time Retail or Styling: Work part-time at a boutique or as a personal stylist to gain experience and network.
• Online Selling: Sell vintage or curated fashion items on platforms like Etsy or Depop.

Remember, your career path is unique. Don't be afraid to explore different options and find a balance between your passion for fashion and your need for financial stability.