Imagine this scenario:

You’re searching for jobs in Sacramento. You find a great opportunity and are called in for an interview, then a second interview. The position sounds ideal…until you hear the proposed salary. It’s below what you expected and what you’re willing to take.

What do you do?

First, keep in mind that most companies have some room to negotiate. Even better, if you’re their top candidate, then you do have a bit of leverage.

And in fact, engaging in a reasonable negotiation of salary can actually paint you in a positive light, demonstrating your willingness to be pro-active in order to win the compensation you think you deserve.

That said, all companies have budgets and are constrained by them. So if you’re asking for more salary than a budget will allow, then consider other options.

For instance, if more money is off the table, ask for more paid time off or for perks like dental insurance. If you’re passionate about the position, the company, and what they do, then it may be worthwhile to accept it. After all, when you truly love your job, then you’re going to perform well, which could lead to promotions and bonuses in the future.

However, if there’s a huge gap between what you’re expecting (and know you’re worth) and what the employer is offering, then negotiating is a waste of time. It’s best to just walk away.

When you do, though, be sure you’re tactful with your approach. In other words, blurting out “You’re offering what for the salary?!! You’re crazy!,” isn’t going to leave a positive impression behind. And you never know if another, better paying opportunity with the same company may come along in the future.

Instead, when you want to withdraw your candidacy from consideration, do it in writing. When you do, be sure to:

• Send a letter or email to the person you interviewed with.
• Include the job title and the fact that you are withdrawing your application for employment.
• Explain why you feel compelled to withdraw your candidacy; in this case, explain why you think the salary is inadequate (for instance, it’s below market value or below what you were earning before) and what you believe to be more appropriate for the position.
• Thank them for their time and offer your regrets, reiterating that salary is the only reason you are not accepting the position.
• Ask them to contact you should future openings come up that are in line with your skills and salary requirements.

Are You a Top Candidate in Search of Your Next Opportunity?

Let Pacific Staffing know. We’ll take the time to learn about your career goals, work environment preferences, interests, and aspirations. It’s how we’re able to go to work, finding jobs in Sacramento that are a terrific showcase for your unique talents and personalities. Contact us today or search our Sacramento jobs now.