Should I Grab The Opportunity??Need Advice!!

Philippines
July 25, 2009 8:16am CST
I am working as a customer service representative as of this moment. I have been in our company for about 1 year and 2 months. Just this afternoon, after my shift, my team leader talk to team and offering me the Assistant Team Leader since according to him I am qualified for the said position. I am really confuse on what to answer. If it in case I will be promoted, i still get the same salary but workloads will be doubled. I don't know what to do. I try to think, if I will be grabbing the opportunity, it will serve as my stepping stone in the next higher position, but the problem is I will be getting same salary as an agent. what is your point of view about this. thanks for sharing.
12 people like this
31 responses
@zandi458 (28102)
• Malaysia
26 Jul 09
As far as I know, any promotion must come with a different salary scale. Why don't you approach your head of department and discuss with him on your new appointment. But if they are not giving you an increment then just accept the position as it will benefit you in the long run when you go out to look for job elsewhere as your new position now will expose you to a lot of work experience which might be a good ground for you to demand for a good salary in other establishment.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
yes, that is also what I know, in every level the you move, there should be an increments. but in our company, there is no increment. the positive thing that I will be getting in case that i accept the offer is that I can use the position in the next company that I am going to work with.
@robert19ph (4577)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
hello rberon1985, In my own opinion, I think you need to take that position even your salary is still the same. Prove to them that you can take more responsibility. Maybe promoting you to the next level will follow once you proved to them that you really can do more than they are expecting from you. Just do your best, you'll see that all your sacrifices in accepting that job/position even no increase at all in your salary will be paid off. Opportunity knocks only once, grab it. It's your chance. Good luck.
1 person likes this
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay. i will check on that. I try to get everybody's opinion.I am very happy that I was chosen but I really don't know what to prioritize because I am also running as a top CSR of the year. I have to choose one. I really have to make a good decision here.
1 person likes this
@srganesh (6340)
• India
26 Jul 09
Accept it dear friend!Even if the salary is the same,you will have a good position,more exposure and nice experiences.As you have said,a promotion is a stepping stone and don't deny it.Your hard work will be rewarded when you get the next promotion.Cheers!
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
But I think the next position will take time, it will take another year for me to attain it. What will happen to me?
1 person likes this
• United States
26 Jul 09
Don't accept the new position without some sort of compensation. If your boss is stingy then try bargaining for extra perks in the job such as a longer lunch break. It is very important to do this or you will considered a doormat!
@sikat101 (149)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
I suggest you grab it now. It is a career opportunity. It is your chance to learn the ropes of managing teams. Do not worry about the salary. In the future, this experience will be your leverage in marketing yourself to higher positions.
1 person likes this
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay. I will try to analyze the advice given by you. Other says that I should not grab the opportunity because it is just a waste of time. I will try to weigh everything. thanks for sharing.
1 person likes this
• China
26 Jul 09
I strong recommend you try to grad the promoted at first. When you jod is done well,the second stege,you could try to increase your salary....Or change the job...as you have the experience already....
1 person likes this
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay, some members has also given me this idea. They say that I can use the said position in other company if I decided to leave the company. let me think of it. thanks for sharing.
1 person likes this
@tammytwo (4298)
• United States
27 Jul 09
Why wouldn't there be an increase in salary? If the workload will double up the salary should increase a well. I would ask a few more questions before jumping into it. I know everyone wants to advance in their career positions. However generally advancement includes a raise in pay as well as additional responsibilities. I wouldn't be so eager to accept more responsibility without more pay. That is definitely something that needs a great deal of consideration.
• Philippines
27 Jul 09
in our company, if you are promoted as an assistant team leader, you will just be happy with the name of your position but your salary is still the same. Isn't it sounds unfair righT?
@anne25penn (3305)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Hello rberon. I understand your dilemma having worked in the same industry for six years. It is a wonderful opportunity to be given a chance to step up the corporate ladder. But before you do accept the position, you have to make sure that everything is in black and white in terms of what the management will offer if you do decide to accept the position. Management have their ways of sugarcoating promises. Ask them how long will it take before you get promoted as a team lead. Also ask if you still have to take calls in order to show your performance metrics. Always remember than in the call center industry, it's all about numbers. And if you will still remain in the same salary bracket, will there be any retroactive payments when you get promoted as a team lead. This kind of "promotion" has been going on for quite some time. I have been a "victim" of such promises than when I accepted the position not only was I flooded with responsibility, my team lead also gave me a warning to improve my stats since I was still taking in calls. So do weigh your options well. Goodluck.
• Philippines
27 Jul 09
Just a word of caution, even if it is a big company as long as you don't have anything set up in black or white, do not accept it. But the decision is still yours. Remember, having an assistant team lead title that is not on your 201 file will not make any difference in the next company that you will work with.
• Philippines
27 Jul 09
thanks for your great advice, I will check on the documents before I proceed.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Just like you, I also become a victim of the said position. In my previous call center, I was offered higher than the offer now. But there is no black and white, it is just verbal announcement,so I believe it it,maybe because it is my first call center job.But they screwed me up. But in this second offer,i am not afraid that they will screwed up, since our company belongs to one of the biggest companies in the Philippines. I am just sad there is no additional income in my salary.
@chaime (1152)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
OH my, same salary? first and foremost, one of the reasons you get promoted is for a higher pay or at the very least any added incentive for the additional workload. Yes, it 'can' be a stepping stone towards a better position and hopefully a higher pay, but honestly I think you should negotiate for a higher salary, the raise shouldn't be very big but even just a little bit would be enough as long as there is a raise. Honestly for me, an up in position with no up in salary is just crap, but if you think that this opportunity will pave the way for you to get a much higher position, then maybe you should take the new job. But also, maybe you can look around (other companies perhaps) that can give you a much higher pay with the same position (at the least same work load) as they are offering you
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
okay , you have a point.Other members says that I can take the offer then after how many months, I can apply to other companies bringing the said position. I think that is a better idea?what do you think?
@LittleMel (8742)
• Canada
26 Jul 09
these days I don't think companies will give pay raise they may still hire new people but they sure won't be willing to pay more to the ones they already have I read that economy is recovering but recovery will be very very slow that means there is still a chance more companies go under and unemployment keeps rising Will you lose your job if you don't grab this chance? if you don't, then skip it it's a good position for a new employee of course, and it may be more secure you notice more people in lower position are replaced than the higher ups so getting to higher position can save you in the long run, but only if the company survives and you can put up with more work same pay I don't like the fact that management always gets away with it but that's how it's always been
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Yes, maybe that is one possible reason why they can't increase my salary, due to economic crisis,i will still have to weigh all the advices given by everyone. i really appreciate all the opinion you have given. keep mylotting!
@heihong (59)
• China
26 Jul 09
If I were you I would grap this opportunity no matter it is a promotion or just a appointment. What bother you now is the affection to your performance once you go for it. But that way you still have another opportunity to get what you want at the end of this year, oppositely if you reject it, another chance like this will no longer knock you in a long time. Furthermore, are you sure you are able to get that Top CSR award with 100% confidence?
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
yes, my manager has already announced that i am one of the tops csr of this year so I really do not know now where to focus. I don't want to be my performance to be affected. thanks for sharing, may you have a great day!
@jheLaichie (4438)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
as for the moment, if you got the doubts ask from your family and close friends first so that you might be enlightened by their advices and point of views. its hard because i have been to that kind of situation myself. but if you cant make up your mind maybe its better not to accept it. because if you are really that doubtful and having second thoughts about the whole thing. think about it a thousandth times before jumping to such conclusion as to avoid any further disappointments. you can do it friend. jhelai
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
I got a lot of responses to this discussion, what i am going to do is to weigh all the opinions and advices given my everyone. All the advices given was really helpful. thanks for sharing!
1 person likes this
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
you deserve to have a positive rating for having an active response to my discussion.keep mylotting!have a great evening!
1 person likes this
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
no problem my friend. and thanks as well. jhelai
@kevchua (1004)
• Malaysia
25 Jul 09
He rberon. Don't be fooled by fancy names. From what you've described, and from my experience at work (though I'm in a different country), the position that your team leader is offering you is merely an appointment, not a promotion. Since it's an appointment, you will not get any salary adjustments. Your work will obviously be more difficult and you may have to work extra hours. Find out if you're able to claim overtime or if there are any additional benefits (which I doubt there are). However, you have to clarify. Is it a PROMOTION? If yes, then good. Make sure you get the official letter for it. Verbal promotion doesn't count - they could always take it back and say "No, I didn't say it's a promotion." I know you're excited about it but please think it over. Good luck and keep us posted. :)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
This is a great advice. I also do not know if it is rally a promotion or just an appointment. What he told me is that he will pass all my credentials to the manager. I know at first I will shine like a star because I was promoted, but I know in the near future, i will be encountering a lots of problem. My work will be doubled but no other benefits that I will get. I am also afraid that my top CSR of the year will be affected. Thank you so much for the wonderful advice.
@kevchua (1004)
• Malaysia
26 Jul 09
rberon, well... i believe that being a top CSR means getting a special award and maybe a bonus or an increment in salary but it will certainly enhance your credentials, which is good for you. I'm not encouraging you to reject the Asst. Manager offer, neither am I discouraging you. However, I'd like you to know that sometimes it pays to be patient - to wait a little longer. Sometimes it's a gamble too - you wait, nothing happens. Think carefully and make that crucial decision. No matter what choice you'll make, don't regret. Continue with it, and work your best. Good luck and let us know your choice, ok? :)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay. that is really a great advice. i really appreciate it. What i think is I will be getting like a two months salary when I become a top CSR while in being an assistant team leader I will not be getting any amount but just the name.
• China
26 Jul 09
As you said,it will serve as a stepping stone to the next higher position.In my opinion,you seriously should accept the promotion,for your ultimate goal is to gain a higher position in your career.Don't you think so?
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Yes, i want to have a higher position but in the situation of our life now, I think I should have to think it over.
• United States
26 Jul 09
hey there and happy day to ya:) Soo i really thought about this before i answered,,at first i was liek nooo dont take it if its more work and same pay..but what if its a test..or even a way to get your foot in the door for something better later on? i would say..try it and just see how things go and if u dont like it maybe u can go back to where u were..i would ask that.well lots of luck..and keep us informed!! byeee! April
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay, as what others say, there's no harm in trying, but I am afraid that I can't perform the job properly, being an assistant team leader is not as easy as eating peanut.
@sid556 (30960)
• United States
26 Jul 09
Unless you are getting a decent raise...I'd turn it down. You will be working harder and for what?...the same pay?? I wouldn't accept it if I were you. They are taking advantage. If they hire outside of the company...they will have to pay more for this position, I'm sure.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
You have a point in that. I am in the situation now, which i really do not know what to do. i'm really confuse. But others say, opportunity only knocks once, but if this will be the case, I have to think of it.
@janzki (49)
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
I think you should grab the opportunity. It's a step up of the ladder. when working, don't think too much on the pay you get but on the experience and learning you'll gain. You can use this, when you go out to seek for a greener pasture. In our company, salary is based on our performance. We too get promoted without salary increase. But if the management is satisfied with our job done, we'll get an increase equivalent to the percentage of our rating.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Okay, that is a good advice. Your advice is most of the advice given by all mylot members who responded to the discussion. thank you so much for sharing. may you have a great day!
@doryvien (2284)
• United States
26 Jul 09
Hi rberon, I would advise you to grab the offer. Why? I know of so many TSRs/CSRs in the country who've been there for about 2yrs or more and they're stuck there, with no signs of getting promoted or appointed to a higher position. Most become call center hoppers, hoping to stumble upon a better deal than what they're currently at. Over a year in the position is not quite long, and getting that offer means that you have been recognized for doing a job well done - a milestone in such a short period. You're right, it could mean more responsibility and no salary increase, but consider the benefits - you could well be a candidate for a higher position after that appointment, you get an excellent boost at your career, and it's good for the resume if you later on consider moving to another company. With the teamleader position attached to your name, you could surely command a better compensation package when you go join another BPO or other call center companies.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Wow!it is a great advice. This is really helpful. You have enlightened my mind. I will bear this in mind. yes, you are right, there will be no adjustments or no salary increase but I could make use of the position when I applied in other company. For this, I will be giving you as the best response for this. Your idea is really helpful.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
I didn't know you were an agent. that's good. this is a very challenging position, despite the fact that you are already top agent of the year, it could have drastic change in your performance if you accept this offer. oh, well it's another new thing to learn in your part, at the same time you could help others as well..
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
Yeah, it is really hard to decide because there will be really a drastic change in my performance because my workload will be doubled. I am still confuse up to now on what to do.I will try to weigh all your advices and try to arrive in one decision. Thanks for sharing!
• United States
26 Jul 09
As I was reading through some of the posts I stopped about halfway. But mostly I was reading your responses back to them. I think you are trying to talk yourself out of this as you keep mentioning about becoming CSR for the year award and you are proud of that. Sounds like you like what you are doing right now and you gave it your all. But being confused over a promotion sound like something you do not want. Like you said you work in a call center and moving up to a higher position in a call center is not a stepping stone. I been there and done that. I am in customer service currently and love it. Customer service itself is a rewarding job. I don't work in a call center now but do work in manufacturing as a Customer Service Specialist. It is completely up to you what you decide, but make sure it is the decision that is right for you. I know I don't know anything about you but would hate for you to take a position and then regret it later.
• Philippines
26 Jul 09
yeah your right. Customer service is really a rewarding job. I do want to lose all the benefits that I am getting as a customer service representative. With the advice you have given, you have enlightened my mind and now I can make better decision. Thank you so much for your care and your concern. have a great day!