5.7When to Walk Away

Walk away when:

• The offer is significantly below market (>15% under midpoint) and the company will not move
• The role responsibilities do not match the title or compensation (a "Senior" role with junior pay)
• You have a competing offer that is meaningfully better across all dimensions
• Red flags emerged during the interview process that compensation cannot offset (toxic culture, unrealistic expectations, no growth path)
• The company pressures you to decide immediately ("this offer expires in 24 hours" is a red flag)

Walk away gracefully. The industry is smaller than you think, and you may encounter these people again.

Script: "After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a different opportunity that is a better fit for my career goals at this time. I genuinely enjoyed meeting the team and learning about the product. I hope our paths cross again in the future."