I applied for a job that I was very interested in and felt would be a good step forward for my career.

This week I got the offer for the job, where they informed me of the salary. The salary is less than I earn now, but the benefits are better. After looking at our budget with my wife, it’s not feasible to take the new job without a major lifestyle change.

Also it does not make sense for me to take a dive in my salary as I graduated from a prestigious university.

No way I will let my degree that I worked hard for and spend years paying back the loan go to waste with a job of such low salary.

My wife called me arrogant, but this is the difference between elite and normal local peeps.

Here are what netizens think:

I’d flat out tell them your concerns. Say “thank you for your offer, but I’d like to negotiate the wage as I currently make $x at current company and after looking through budgeting, I cannot make anything less than that.” See if they would be willing to match or give you even more money first before you turn them down.

What prestigious university? I have no degree and I don’t even have a diploma but I am probably earning more than you can imagine. I own a coffee shop and 2 restaurants.

Definitely communicate your salary requirements. If they cannot meet them, just let them know that you are grateful for the opportunity, I would love to stay in touch, but that you are worth more money and therefore cannot except the position. No one cares what degree you have.

Your local or whatever prestigious degree will only hold value in a very big MNC job or a government job.