Did I just ruin my new job opportunity?

So, I was recently offered a position as a legal assistant at a big law firm—super excited about it. The offer is contingent on passing a background check, and my start date is supposed to be 4/14/25.

Today, I received a pre-adverse action notice due to a felony conviction from 2016 (the incident itself happened back in 2008). I immediately responded to the HR director’s email to explain the circumstances and provide context. I didn’t bring it up during the interview process because, honestly, in my past experience, disclosing it early usually means I never get a chance.

I’ve already submitted my notice to my current employer. Yeah, I know—I probably should’ve waited until everything cleared, but here we are.

Am I completely cooked? Should I even bother confirming my start date at this point?

Jobadvisor:

It's understandable why you're feeling anxious and worried right now. You're in a tough spot, but you're not necessarily completely "cooked" yet. While you've definitely introduced a significant complication, there's still a chance you can salvage the job opportunity.

Here's a breakdown of the situation and what you should do:

Why you might still have a chance:

• You responded immediately: This shows you're taking the matter seriously and are proactive.
• You're providing context: Explaining the circumstances of the conviction is crucial. Law firms understand that people make mistakes, and the details can matter.
• The conviction is from 2016, and the incident from 2008: The further in the past the offense, the less bearing it might have on your current suitability for the role, especially a legal assistant position that doesn't involve practicing law directly.
• They haven't officially rescinded the offer yet: The "pre-adverse action notice" means they are considering taking negative action, but they haven't made a final decision. They are legally required to give you a chance to respond.

Why you're right to be concerned:

• Felony conviction: This is a serious matter and will undoubtedly raise concerns for a law firm, which operates under strict ethical and professional standards.
• Non-disclosure during the interview: While you have your reasons, this could be seen as a lack of transparency. However, your explanation of past negative experiences is valid and worth emphasizing.
• You've already given notice: This puts you in a vulnerable position regardless of the outcome with the law firm.

What you should do now:

1. Follow up on your initial response:

   • Be thorough and honest in your explanation. Provide as much detail as you comfortably can about the circumstances surrounding the conviction, any rehabilitation efforts you've made, and how you've moved forward since then.
   • Emphasize the time that has passed. Highlight that this occurred many years ago and doesn't reflect who you are today.
   • Explain your reasoning for not disclosing earlier. Briefly reiterate your past negative experiences with early disclosure. Frame it as a difficult decision made out of a desire to demonstrate your qualifications first.
   • Express your sincere regret for any concern or complication this may cause.
   • Reiterate your strong interest in the position and your commitment to being a valuable member of their team.
   • Offer to provide any further information or documentation they may need.

2. Consider providing supporting documentation (if applicable and you feel comfortable):

   • Letters of recommendation from current or former employers who are aware of your past and can speak to your character and work ethic.
   • Documentation of any rehabilitation programs or courses you've completed.
   • A brief personal statement further elaborating on your growth and lessons learned.

3. Do NOT confirm your start date at this point. Wait to hear back from the HR director regarding their decision after reviewing your explanation. Confirming your start date now could be premature and potentially awkward if they ultimately decide to withdraw the offer.

4. Prepare for the worst-case scenario:

   • Start looking for other job opportunities immediately. While you're hoping for the best with the law firm, you need to be proactive in case things don't work out.
   • Reach out to your network. Let people know you're back on the job market (without necessarily going into all the details of this situation if you're not comfortable).
   • Consider contacting a legal professional for advice on how to navigate this situation, especially regarding your rights and potential next steps if the offer is rescinded.

In conclusion:

You've definitely created a challenging situation for yourself by not disclosing the conviction earlier and by resigning from your current job prematurely. However, your prompt and detailed response to the pre-adverse action notice gives you a chance to explain the circumstances and potentially mitigate their concerns.

Focus on providing a clear, honest, and compelling explanation. While you shouldn't confirm your start date yet, don't lose all hope. The outcome will depend on the nature of the felony, the firm's policies, and how well you can articulate your situation and demonstrate your suitability for the role despite your past.

Good luck! This is a stressful situation, but try to remain calm and proactive.

Burned out from thinking. Take 50% pay cut?

I'm a 30 year old software developer and I'm pretty close to quitting and going to work in a factory. I've been with the company for 7 years and I have a high position, but I've recently gone through some really hard mental health issues that have left me completely burnt out. I don't have any mental capacity left for my daily engineering tasks and I search for every way possible to avoid doing work. I have life-long serious mental illnesses, and I've been suffering with depression after a recent breakup and OCD episode. Everyday I fantasize about quitting and going to work in my local factory, doing some repetitive simple job. I don't think I want to stay in the tech industry in general. I'm not sure if a vacation would help, because this is a deep rooted issue, and I can't take medical leave because I work at a small startup and I know they wouldn't allow it. If I worked in a factory I'd be taking like a 50% pay cut to my current position, and I'd essentially be starting over in life. I have no partner, kids, and I live with my parents, so I don't have anyone depending on me. Would I be making a huge mistake?

Jobadvisor:

It sounds like you're going through a really tough time, and the burnout you're describing is serious. It's understandable that you're looking for an escape and a simpler way of life right now. Let's break down the decision of taking a 50% pay cut to work in a factory.

Potential Benefits of Switching to a Factory Job:

• Reduced Mental Strain: A repetitive, less mentally demanding job could offer a significant break from the cognitive load of software development. This could provide the space your mind needs to recover.
• Simpler Responsibilities: Less complex tasks can lead to less stress and fewer feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Physical Activity: Depending on the factory job, it could involve more physical movement, which can be beneficial for both physical and mental health.
• Clear Boundaries: Factory work often has more defined start and end times, potentially leading to a better work-life balance (though this can vary).
• A Sense of Starting Fresh: As you mentioned, it could feel like a fresh start, which might be appealing if you're feeling stuck or disillusioned in your current career.

Potential Drawbacks of Switching to a Factory Job (and the 50% Pay Cut):

• Financial Impact: A 50% pay cut is significant. While you currently live with your parents and have no dependents, consider the long-term implications:
  • Savings: Your ability to save for the future (retirement, emergencies, personal goals) will be drastically reduced.
  • Independence: While you live with your parents now, your financial independence might be affected if you ever want to move out or contribute more to household expenses.
  • Unexpected Costs: Life throws curveballs. Having a financial cushion is important.
  • Lifestyle Changes: You'll likely need to significantly adjust your spending habits.
• Lack of Intellectual Stimulation: While the reduced mental strain might be appealing now, you might eventually find a repetitive job unfulfilling or boring, especially coming from a highly skilled field.
• Limited Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement and increased earnings in factory work are generally less than in software development.
• Potential Physical Demands: Factory work can be physically demanding, and depending on the specific job, it could lead to physical strain or injuries over time.
• Social Environment: The social dynamics and intellectual level of your colleagues might be different in a factory setting compared to a tech company. This isn't inherently bad, but it's something to consider.
• Difficulty Returning to Tech: If you decide later that you want to return to software development, it could be challenging after a significant career break and a shift in your skillset.

Important Considerations Before Making a Decision:

• Address the Root Cause: While a change of scenery might offer temporary relief, it's crucial to continue addressing your underlying mental health issues. Therapy, medication, and other forms of support are essential for long-term well-being, regardless of your job.
• Explore Less Drastic Options: Have you considered other less extreme options before quitting entirely?
  • Negotiating a Different Role within the Company: Could you discuss a less demanding role or a shift in your responsibilities with your employer? Even if medical leave isn't fully supported, perhaps a temporary adjustment could be possible.
  • Part-Time Work: Could you negotiate a reduced work schedule in your current role, even with a pay cut that's less than 50%? This could give you more time to focus on your mental health and explore other options.
  • Freelancing or Consulting: Could you take on smaller, less intense software development projects on your own terms?
  • Exploring Different Tech Roles: Maybe a different type of role within the tech industry (e.g., technical writing, support, less high-pressure development) would be a better fit.
• Try Before You Leap (If Possible): Could you try to get a temporary or part-time job in a factory setting to see if it's truly what you envision? This would give you firsthand experience without making a permanent commitment.
• Create a Financial Plan: If you are seriously considering the pay cut, create a detailed budget to understand how it would impact your finances.
• Talk to a Therapist or Counselor: Discussing your feelings and potential options with a mental health professional can provide valuable insights and support.
• Consider the "Why": Dig deeper into why you are drawn to factory work. Is it truly the simplicity, or is it an avoidance of the challenges you're currently facing? Understanding the underlying motivations will help you make a more informed decision.

Would it be a huge mistake?

It's impossible for me to definitively say if it would be a "huge mistake" because it depends entirely on your individual priorities and long-term goals.

• If your primary goal right now is to prioritize your mental health and you believe a less demanding job is crucial for your recovery, and you are fully prepared for the financial implications, then it might not be a mistake.
• However, if the desire for a factory job is solely driven by a desire to escape your current difficulties without addressing the underlying mental health issues, and you haven't fully considered the long-term financial and career implications, then it could potentially be a decision you might regret.

Recommendation:

Instead of making an immediate and drastic decision, I strongly encourage you to:

1. Prioritize your mental health: Continue seeking professional help and explore all available treatment options.
2. Explore less extreme alternatives: Investigate the possibilities of a different role, reduced hours, or a temporary change within the tech industry.
3. Thoroughly research factory work: Understand the realities of the job, including the physical demands, work environment, and long-term career prospects.
4. Create a detailed financial plan: Understand the impact of a 50% pay cut on your current and future financial well-being.
5. Talk to trusted friends or family (if you feel comfortable): Getting different perspectives can be helpful.

Taking a significant pay cut and changing careers is a big decision. Give yourself time and space to explore all your options and make a choice that truly supports your long-term well-being. Your current feelings are valid, but try to make a decision based on a clear understanding of both the potential benefits and drawbacks.