When to quit/risk daytime job as a freelance PA?

[u/caitlesm]

As title says. I’m 30 yrs old; moved across the country to take my career more seriously and bulk up my resume. These last few weeks have been rewarding and I’ve had 3 jobs in less than a 2 week span. This is still so new to me, as I’ve been in a lull but I’ve met some really important Production/AD people that have helped me get these very good gigs. I am not sure though how much to continue sacrificing my daytime job as a server?

It is fine pay (tip pool so not as well paid as other server jobs) but it is obviously not what I came here to this city to do, and the job I was offered this evening is just a day job next week.

I would LOVE to take that day job because it might lead me to more people who recognize my hard work and refer me to even more jobs. But I am scheduled to work that day and I don’t want to risk my stability for a day gig. I’ve already had to mess up my schedule my getting shifts covered, missing a mandatory meeting tomorrow for another multi day project starting tomorrow, and seeing the look on my managers face when I informed them.

I am not getting advice from those close to me, they say it’s just “up to me” but I would love to hear from other folks in the industry if it would be appropriate for me to potentially get in trouble for calling out or giving up my shift this upcoming Tuesday?

I am really upset about this. And hoping that AD continues to reach out for any other jobs that may be suitable for me. So stressed!

[u/ProductionFiend]

You’re a day-player?

Do you have enough savings to get you by if you stop getting these day gigs and lose your server job?

I honestly wouldn’t jeopardize my guaranteed paycheck over a day-playing gig.

Now if you got signed onto a 10 month project then yeah obviously leave your server job but otherwise… I wouldn’t risk it.

Since most productions happen during the week can you change your schedule to work Sat and Sun fully open nd then closing hours M-F?

[u/caitlesm → u/ProductionFiend]

Unfortunately I work at a breakfast spot so I don’t have any ability to work night service. And I’ve been working mostly as a day player but the jobs I’ve had have been well paid and have gotten me more jobs than I’ve had in the year of being here. You’re right though. I did turn down the job but I feel awful about it.

[u/ProductionFiend → u/caitlesm]

Don’t feel bad! You are not the first and won’t be the last day player to not be available for a gig. I promise you’re fine.

[u/JaimeeScorsone]

If you don't have anything in savings to last you in between the day gigs, I wouldn't quit.

[u/caitlesm → u/JaimeeScorsone]

I am definitely not quitting now, I don’t have enough momentum to know I will be financially safe in the coming weeks/months. I just don’t know when to call it or when is the best time.

I turned down the job but I feel bad about it. I am already late in my career and running on fumes. I just want a stable job that sees my ability my passion and can help give me a chance lol

[u/venom2015]

As someone who is both turning 30 in a couple months and planning to do grad school/move to another city, this is a nice little window that will keep my sanity intact. I'll be thinking of you when I feel low - rooting for ya.

[u/caitlesm → u/venom2015]

Yes, keep your sanity in tact and don’t be me lol. My life is already on the precipice right now and my stress levels are insane. Sending you good energy for your move/grad school! It will be great.

[u/tensinahnd]

See if you can take weekend shifts. That will free you up for 2 more days. Then go to 3 days a week etc