To ask you what to do re job?

[Margarita1234]

Background: I'm a lawyer with one DC. DH is a low earner. Recently I've not felt happy at my current firm and applied to another via a recruiter. I had a couple of (tough) interviews with various partners at the other firm and have been offered a job there. On paper the new firm is great, but they're offering me around £3k less than I'm currently on (on the basis they'll fast track me for promotion once they've seen what I can do). Current job is pretty flexible but I'm very demoralised. New firm is more prestigious in the market.

I feel like I so want to leave my current firm but the new offer seems bullshit to me, especially in this market.

I've agreed to another meeting with them next week to sound them out. But wise MNetters, what should I do?

Press them to match your current salary.

I wouldn't go on the promise they will see what I can do and then pay more- perhaps

You've had a rigorous interview process and have a history in your career behind you
Would a man contemplate it- consider that

Know your worth and you will be working your arse off for less money- less flexibility why? For the random dangle of a possible carrot in the future?

Did the salary not get disclosed pre interview?

Can you get any promises re fast tracking in writing?
Including firm criteria, processes and timelines? Who will be assessing you? How will this happen?

If the increase never happens can you manage with the 3k reduction? How would you feel about the firm if it turned out they don't follow through on what they've promised?

It's an opening gambit. Play it cool but make it clear you won't accept a decrease. Ask also about benefits, share options, bonus structure etc. By the time they're offering they want you but will try to keep their costs down. I would never accept the promise of a promotion later, they rarely materialise.

I was a Family Solicitor. Specialising in divorce law and child protection.

I am now working in policy development in a well regarded charity. I earn more (double) and the work is so laid back and relaxed with lovely people not trying to bill in 6 minute units and get the client off their desk. More time for actually doing a decent job.

Do not agree to it. If they want you they will pay for you. You should only move for an uplift. Accepting this sends the signal that they can push you around. Please trust me - I have been there.

I totally misread your post (granted I'm two glasses of wine in) I thought you were saying what do YOU do (as in us, the readers) for a job!

In your situation I would ask for a wage matching at the very least.

I wouldn't gamble for less money, unless the current situation is unbearable and have a negative impact on your mental health.

You may end up just as unhappy in the new place but at least the extra income would compensate in a small way.

Future promises are never guaranteed so it's a bit leap of faith. I would negotiate more or keep interviewing for jobs elsewhere.

I would not move for a lower package. If they won’t compete then I’d walk away. Id also want concrete and documented steps to
a promised promotion.

3K is nothing for such a 'prestigious' firm. They're lowballing you. Call their bluff.
Also.. even if you get something in writing they could always rescind it due to layoffs/economic climate/whatever.

Thanks all. They say that due to bandings they can't pay me any more than that but I really think that if they want me they need to!

The recruiter isn't very helpful and I've never been in this situation before. I don't want to give up an amazing opportunity but equally don't want to have them take advantage of me.

Check glass door to see if their bandings match what is reported there

Well, if you ask for more, and they say no, you still have the choice of whether to accept. They're not going to withdraw the offer just because you asked for more. They'll just reiterate that it's final take it or leave it (although maybe you can ask for other benefits like more A/L).

Then the ball returns to your court, is 3K worth the opportunity? Personally I think any firm that lowballs employees with things like 'bandings' (it's not the civil service) isn't going to look out for you. But, the big name on your CV may lead to bigger and better things in the future, so it may be worth it. Your decision though.

I think I would keep looking around to be honest