Hi everyone! I'm hoping to get some advice from this wonderful community. After leaving a toxic workplace where my confidence took quite a hit, I've been fortunate enough to receive a job offer that I'm genuinely excited about.

11 Comments

1. AnonymousApril 13,2026 at 1:01PM UTC

   Sadly I took what I could get. While my new boss was a personal acquaintance she’s a bit of a bully. Luckily her office was in another location so I rarely interacted with her.

   Om a better note I ended up being transferred to a better paying group.

2. Jonna Ferguson, ACCApril 14,2026 at 1:43PM UTC

   This can be difficult. You’re taking time to recalibrate after being in an environment that distorted your sense of value. If you focus on how you're qualified and experienced for this role, advocating for yourself and negotiating can be very straightforward!

   A few approaches that may help:

   1.Anchor yourself in data. Look up market ranges for your role, level, and geography (Glassdoor, Levels, LinkedIn Salary). Your confidence will grow when you’re referencing facts.

   2.Let the offer validate you! They chose you, and they expect candidates to negotiate. If done professionally, it’s an expected part of the process.

   3.Use neutral, collaborative language. “Based on market data and my experience, I was hoping we could explore a base salary closer to $X. Is there flexibility there?”

   4.Prioritize what matters most. If their hiring salary is set, consider negotiating in other areas: bonus structure, title, PTO, etc. Strong negotiations are multi-variable.

   5.Confidence often returns through repetition. Say your negotiation script a few times before the conversation so it feels natural, not forced.

   6.Separate your past from this next chapter. A toxic leader or environment may have made you question your worth, but this new company is investing in it.

   You don’t have to be aggressive to advocate for yourself. When you are clear, well-informed, and steady, you're showing a strong level of judgement that reveals what you'll be capable of once you're hired.

   And if they aren't in a place to negotiate, (sometimes there just isn't flexibility), then you have a choice to make. If this is a leader and company you want to work for because you see a potential for growth, then the long-term goal may be worth the wait. Don't be afraid to shoot your shot!

3. AnonymousApril 24,2026 at 12:58AM UTC

   BEST RESPONSE, YES!!!

4. shnedaApril 14,2026 at 2:01PM UTC

   I know that feeling toxic workplace, and congratulation on finding new employment. I am still looking.

5. Cheryl GoldsworthyApril 21,2026 at 2:52PM UTC

   I remember the effects a toxic workplace had on my self-confidence and self esteem. I was so fortunate to have a former coworker from my past refer me to the best opportunity. Remember, the new company doesn’t know what happened in the previous role.

6. AnonymousApril 24,2026 at 12:57AM UTC

   Not necessarily true. Same fields have many prior contacts just moving around companies. So many previous contacts have access to talk to old and new employers.

7. AnonymousApril 21,2026 at 1:17PM UTC

   Once you have the written offer, the new company has now started their investment in you. In general, ask for what you want. They wont rescind the offer for making an ask if that is what you are worried about. The worst that can happen is that they will say no. Assuming it is a little more on the salary, job offers usually leave a little wiggle room there and it is the easiest communication in the world. ie. "I was really planning to be at $X/year in my next role". Would you be willing to consider this? A lot of companies default to very little vacation time. Another ask could be; "In my past roles, I've always had 3 weeks vacation to start, if you can meet me there then I can start in 2 weeks." I hope I covered what you are thinking of asking and good luck!

8. GirlBossanova934974April 21,2026 at 3:42PM UTC

   First and foremost, you must have a tangible list of what you are looking for. Pay from x to y, number of vacation days, and training. Be flexible and be prepared to trade for things. Last but not least, KNOW what you are getting into. What will be your tasks? Are there some things you are missing to accomplish those tasks? Who can help you? What is the onboarding process?

9. AnonymousApril 21,2026 at 4:20PM UTC

   If you are at the offer stage and are trying to negotiate, I wonder if they shared during the interview process what the overall range of compensation would be. If you have an offer in hand ask them about the total rewards, bonus, reviews, stock, benefits, etc. Then ask where you fit into the org structure in terms of level if the company is large enough for things like that. Then you can assess where you fit into their team and can decide if you want to ask for more money which may or may not shake loose the offer. If there is potential to move up that may factor in too. Keep in mind you can always ask, but you may end up in the same offer they gave you at the onset and then you will just have to decide if you want to take it as is and leave the toxic employer and where it made you feel bad behind. Best is to go with your gut, see how they take to any conversation and come in with gusto and vigor into your well earned new role. Congrats! Make it great.

10. Brittany EverettApril 21,2026 at 5:36PM UTC

    First of all, remind yourself everyday how strong you are for leaving a toxic workplace. It is not easy and you will have moments where you feel you should have stayed but it won't do you any good to feel regretful. Print out your resume and remind yourself how far you have come. This job market is brutal. You will get rejected from so many jobs you are overqualified for. Remind yourself who YOU are because you are the only you there is and YOU are the only person you can and will advocate for yourself. You got this! Don't give up!

11. Dr. Patty GrossApril 22,2026 at 11:50AM UTC

    First: Know what you are worth. Do salary research for your area to see what people with your skillset are being paid for the job you are negotiating. Factor in industry and sector.

    Second: Know the company you are negotiating with. Find out whether they are experiencing financial difficulties (this is public information if they are listed on a stock exchange). If they are making money hand over fist, they have extra money they can spend on new talent. If they aren't interested in doing that, you don't want to work there. If they are struggling, you may want to consider negotiating extra PTO or other benefits.