Question:
I just received and offer after a few weeks of interviews but as I look at it I’m really not convinced. It involves relocation, I would have to rent a house (I already own one now) and groceries are more expensive in that region. If Ia factor those things it’s not worth moving for the 30% they are offering. What is the best way to decline the offer?

 

You really should have clarified your expectation upfront. To be realistic a 25%-30% increase is what most companies will offer (READ: How much should I get for changing jobs in Mexico?).

 

If you want to keep your house and completely add the rent of another house in a new city to your new salary your expectation will most likely be higher than what most organizations will pay. And groceries? How much do you spend a month in groceries?

 

Let’s be realistic: I speak to over 100 people each month and there are two types of candidates:

 

1) The ones that are really interested in making a change because they have a very clearly defined goal of where they want to be in the future (money and target job) and understand the path to get there. These individuals seek POSITIONING themselves in an organization that will allow them to develop themselves with the absolute understanding that money will follow experience and responsibility.

 

2) The ones that are comfortable were they are but would like to make more money so they look around just because it doesn’t hurt.

Based on your questions it is clear that, at least for now, you belong in the number 2 category.

I strongly recommend you review your career plan. Understand and clarify where you want to be and what steps are required to get there. It’s important that you involve your family in this process and make sure it’s part of your life plan and not an isolated plan that will be questioned when its time to make a move. Your plan may or may not involve switching jobs, or moving to another city.

Once you know what your plan is: Attack! And do it hard with full commitment.

Never allow yourself to fall into category 2 because it WILL weaken your growth and burn bridges. It creates distraction and it will drop your intensity and performance with your current employer and you can never allow that to happen. You are building your resume every day with your achievements and your current performance. Every single day counts. Stay focused.

 

Having said that, the best way to decline is to be honest. Your answer should be “I’m apologize, but after reviewing the offer I realize I should have clarified my expectations up-front. This was not what I was looking for” Any good manager will be able to see through the excuses so don’t try to cover it up.