u/streakfolmlore

I’m applying for a role in my dream company, and don’t want budget to be a big factor that affects my chances of being considered, because my current compben package may be difficult to match already. My priority is getting into the company more than a big salary bump.

During the initial HR interview, I gave my current package and expectation of 20-30% increase. However my mistake is I forgot to ask if this was within the budget for the role. Can I still ask for the budget range after the interview?

I did move on to the hiring manager round so it may be within budget, but again don’t want my asking to affect my chances.

The initial HR call was 3 weeks ago. Is there a way I can smoothly ask about it now, and emphasize that I am flexible on the expectations / express that I am very eager for the opportunity?

Hello.

I’m a severely burnt out corporate girlie in her late 20s, dreaming of leaving corporate and transitioning to fully remote/wfh work ASAP. Just want to hear some words of encouragement, practical advice, or even just experiences from people who’ve been through a similar situation and made the leap.

I have always been an achiever (or rather, a high functioning depressive), and I am truly blessed to have work that recognizes and compensates me well for it. But as a highly sensitive introvert in sales, the corporate politics, people-pleasing, constant high demands, and overall career misalignment have finally gotten to me. Now I am burnt out, struggling to stay present and engaged in my day to day, daydreaming of slow mornings and work that adds to my life instead of taking from it.

As a breadwinner, my career was built on decisions made to support my family, because I am the responsible and diligent daughter, the golden child, the provider, problem-solver, the one who comes to everyone’s help and rescue. But almost two decades of prioritizing others has led me to become so disconnected to myself that I’ve forgotten who I was and the things I loved before burnout.

So I’m deciding to leave corporate (or at least sales). No more climbing ladders, no more wearing “thrives in a fast-paced environment” like a badge of honor, no flashy titles — just a slower-paced, remote/wfh role that would give me my peace, time, and myself back.

Leaving the stability, benefits, progression I’ve built for the past years feels scary. Especially with the instability of freelancing, the continuity of bills, the volatility of today’s job market. But I try to remind myself that it isn’t too late to start over and find work that is better aligned to my skills, strengths, and what I enjoy doing, even if it comes with an initial paycut. I now want to come home to myself by building a life that feels good to me, even if it might not make sense for others.

I’ve been job hunting for 2 months now and still no luck. I hope I find new work soon because my soul has been aching to breathe freely.

If you’ve been through something similar, let’s talk. I would appreciate any guidance/mentorship/leads as well. Thanks for reading all the way through. :)