Job offers are often viewed as milestones, but sometimes they result in unexpected disappointment. When the mentioned salary range is lower than anticipated, it can leave candidates confused whether to accept or decline. Beyond base pay, factors such as remote work, benefits, paid time off, and career growth opportunities play a significant role in the decision-making process. Knowing how to analyze total compensation, weigh job stability, and assess long-term mobility is important. Thoughtful negotiation and clear reasoning can sometimes enhance offers, but knowing when to walk away ensures you prioritize both financial goals and professional growth.
A Redditor recently shared their experience:
“Job offer surprisingly much lower than expected, should I turn it down? Update: I countered, gave reasons why and data to back up my reasoning. The offer did not budge. I’m going to decline after giving it much thought.”
They had applied to one of the Big 4 accounting firms and got an offer $15,000 lower than their expected salary range, situated at the low end of the salary the company had given.
“I am completely confused why they wasted everyone’s time and I feel insulted. I will not be progressing in pay if I accept. I loved that it is fully remote and they have slightly better benefits BUT that offer is much lower than I thought and I would be making the exact pay now.”
While the fully remote position and the organization’s size were appealing, the Redditor was uncertain whether it was worth accepting.
“I am thinking of turning it down but it is fully remote and it is a huge company with opportunity to move around? of course not guaeanteed.”
Insights from the Reddit Community
Several users contributed their viewpoints on why the offer might be low and how to analyze it:
Honestly sounds like they’re lowballing you because they think you’ll take it for the remote work and brand name – classic Big 4 move tbh
If you’re not hurting for money where you are, I’d counter with what you actually want or just walk away
Some comments urged weighing job stability and career development:
“What are the chances of getting laid off at your current company versus the chances of getting laid off at one of the big fours the next time there’s an economic downturn, something I would consider. But if you honestly think there’s lateral, I mean or upper mobility there, or maybe they’re having it on your résumé will get you an extra 15 K down the line. And I’m guessing they’re offering you 135 versus the 150 you wanted, or is this you wanted 100 K and they only offered to 85. 85 sucks 135 is still a pretty good salary if you think there’s opportunities at the place.”
Another user emphasized the significance of evaluating total compensation, not just salary:
“Put a dollar figure to the lack of a commute and the benefits difference. If new company pays 100% of insurance premiums, has a better 401k match, and maxes out an HSA for you, they might be closer than you think. Also, add up all PTO and paid holidays to compare those. Base salary is just a starting point. I hated the place, but my last job did all of the above. I needed 10k more at my new job to break even and that was after negotiating the PTO amount.”