What Is the Walk Away Point in a Job Negotiation?
Knowing what you want is important when you're in the job negotiation process. Doing so sets the standard of what you'll accept in a job negotiation. If the employer doesn't meet it, you may think about walking away and passing the offer. Identifying the walk away point in negotiation may be your best bet instead of pushing for the job.
What is a Walk Away Point?
A walk away point is when you realize there's no point in pushing for negotiation because it doesn't meet your demands. In a job negotiation, this is quite common. There are many reasons for you to reach a walk away point. It could be because the employer isn't offering a good pay rate. Another is that there are not enough paid leaves.
Whatever the reason, a walk away point shows the line you draw. It reveals the value you have for yourself. If others don't meet this, you reach the walk away point in negotiation. However, the concept of walking away isn't always due to unmet standards. It could also be a tactic to get the most out of a job offer. For example, some people threaten to walk away for a higher pay rate.
When to Walk Away from a Job Negotiation: 5 Signs
In a job negotiation, remember that there's a limit. Not every negotiation you get into will turn out the way you want. There are times when you need to stop and let things be. Below are five signs or situations where it's better to walk away.
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It reached your thresholds
Whether new in the workforce or not, you most likely have a threshold or a minimum asking rate for a job. It could depend on the minimum wage, or you came up with a fee higher than minimal pay. If employers can't meet either, they may end up underpaying you. That's an obvious sign for you to stop or say no to a deal.
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Terms are constantly changing
There are terms and conditions to every negotiation. They're usually the fine print you need to pay more attention to. If you notice that they change often, that's not a good sign. It's worse if there was an alteration after you agreed to the deal. Clear things out if this happens, or better yet, walk away.
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You compromise your values
People believe in and practice certain morals. But no employer or company should have to demand you to go against your ideals. If a job negotiation asks you to compromise your beliefs, walk away. Even if it wasn't contrary to your standards but deviates from basic ethics, it's a walk away point in negotiation. No deal is ever worth losing character over.
One more thing that commonly happens between employees and employer is a culture clash. If you feel a major difference in social, political, and other stands, it may be best to sit this out. There's nothing wrong with walking away if you feel conflicts are waiting to happen in the workspace. In addition, it's better to decline a deal than end up being with people you don't get along with.
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The other party is asking for unreasonable terms
Another warning sign for you to walk away is irrational terms. An example would be demanding you to decide on a short period. You should also not allow ‘non-negotiable' terms that make no sense. If they voice statements such as “sign this or else,” you know it's a red flag. Any pushy and unkind behaviors are a must-walk-away point in the negotiation.
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You can't give what the other party needs
In most job negotiations, you may always look out for yourself. There's nothing wrong with that. However, it would be best if you also considered the other side. For instance, you have demands such as a specific rate and benefits. But would you be able to give back and do what the employer asks of you? Do you have the competency and skills they need?
A part of being professional is being honest. You wouldn't want to lead the company thinking you could do specific tasks. If your answers are no, it's best to walk away
Knowing What is the Walk Away Point in Negotiation
A negotiation can push you to the edge. But keep in mind the standards you have for yourself. Doing so will keep you grounded no matter what happens in your job negotiation. It's also important to remember that only some deals will push through. People can agree to disagree, and that's your walk away point in the negotiation. If you need help with job-related matters, check out Career.com.
