I've been looking for jobs, but nothing has fit my criteria so far. My criteria might be slightly high, but I'm trying to balance what the posting is selling me with realistic expectations and being able to support my family (can't take much of a pay or benefits cut). I know there will be problems anywhere, so I'm trying to find something I can objectively say provides better opportunity, pay, or conditions. I'm also looking at internal job postings and having conversations with my manager about career progression and opportunities.
I'll say this though.
My mom sold men's clothing for Macy's and was guaranteed she'd never get a raise even though she was a top performer because the company had been through reorganizations and the contract said so. She felt unappreciated and absolutely hated the company.
We told her she could get a job doing basically the same thing at Filene's or some other store. It wouldn't be radically better but it could be a little bit better.
She was afraid to make a change.
My dad died and she never really adjusted. She had a chance to move to where her sister lived in Freeport, ME which is a mecca for retail, but she never did.
She died of a cardiovascular event within a few years.
Later on I had to confront my own fear of making changes and was furious at her for setting a bad example. But I miss her and think she might still be around today if she'd had more courage.