Should I leave a job I've only been at 3 months to take another job that pays 50% more?

Anonymous

October 19,2022 at 1:03AM UTC

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Should I leave a job I've only been at 3 months to take another job that pays 50% more?

I got laid off in July and was interviewing at a few companies for a new job. One company unfortunately went into a hiring freeze during my interview process, so I accepted an offer at another company (my current one, which I started August 1). I felt so grateful to have found a job quickly, the people and work culture are nice, and there's not much I can complain about. Now, the first company just called me and told the hiring freeze has been lifted and are offering a total compensation of about 50% more than I currently make. I'm tempted to take it as the extra money would be nice, but I feel guilty about leaving a job I started so recently. What would you do?

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AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 2:06AM UTC
I’m heavily motivated by money, take the job with higher pay.
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 2:57AM UTC
It's a hard conversation to have (leaving so quickly), but most anyone would understand your decision, including your current manager I'm guessing.
I would mention that you were interviewing with them prior to accepting the job August 1, just to make sure they know you weren't interviewing after accepting the first job.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistOctober 19,2022 at 3:44AM UTC
Guilty about what?
I promise you, neither your boss nor your team members have ever, WILL ever say "gee, I'd love to take this great new job, but I would feel so guilty leaving anonymous."
Never. Going. To. Happen.
They'll get over it. Trust me on that.
You have to do what's best for your career. Do you know how many years of raises it would take you to get to that comp? That said, you didn't say anything about the job itself - just the money. Taking money out of the equation, is it a good next step for you?
MikkibethOctober 19,2022 at 3:53AM UTC
Yes
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 6:33AM UTC
yes
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 7:47AM UTC
Heck yes
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 12:33PM UTC
Take the job.
BrendaOctober 19,2022 at 12:36PM UTC
never feel guilty for leaving a job for more pay. 50% is a big gap. as long as the activities are similar, i'd go.
Shelly EdwardsOctober 19,2022 at 1:41PM UTC
That's a HUGE pay gap. I'd thank you current company and move on to the next. Having said that, be cautious about a company that went from hiring freeze to such a large salary so quickly. It might spell financial mismanagement so I'd do a little research first.
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 3:08PM UTC
Yes! Don’t feel guilty about a better financial situation! You can see if they will match but, I doubt it!
Barb HansenOctober 19,2022 at 3:31PM UTC
Always remember, companies don't feel guilty about having to fire you or lay you off. Companies will do what they need to do to "keep the doors open."
The company that you work for now paid you for the work that you did. The company that you work for will pay the next employee for the work that they do.
It's okay to feel guilt or discomfort in leaving people that you work with, if you like those people.
But you should never let those feelings stop you from taking a job that you want (and come on, a 50% increase in your annual wage if life changing! ) b/c the company you work for now, would not let feelings stop it from laying you off (if it had too).
Congrats on the new job!
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 9:45PM UTC
Take it!
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 10:52PM UTC
Why not?
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 1:12AM UTC
Take the new job! I am going through something similar and relate to your feelings of guilt. The bottom line is you have to do what is best for you.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 12:14PM UTC
I’d take it. That’s a huge increase in pay. But I can understand why you are conflicted since you’ve only been at your current place for 3 months and have been nice to you.
JeanMarie FinnertyOctober 20,2022 at 12:28PM UTC
Absolutely take it. Do not feel guilty for leaving a job especially when you know firsthand that you can be laid off at any time from any company.
Crystal HowellOctober 20,2022 at 12:36PM UTC
I would have a heart to heart with my current employer, see if they can raise you since your 90 day review is here.
Explore and verify the new company, is it a start up they get donations, grants and loans to start are they going to be stable? What is the industry you are in? Sometimes the grass isn't greener. What about benefits, do they have any, check the reviews, google for lawsuits, check yahoo finance, check better business bureau, a lot to think about?
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 12:37PM UTC
extra money is nice but make sure it’s an environment you would want to be in. Extra money can be extra responsibility (you don’t want) or could be around people who aren’t as nice.I’ve done it before and it wasn’t worth it for me. Way out the pros and cons
D BOctober 20,2022 at 1:26PM UTC
Very true also. I used to love my job, used to put in extra hours and all, used to work from home when needed to help out (at no pay mind you) and make the hour round trip if they needed something. NOW i have a very toxic boss who micromanages us supervisors and will not let us make a call. SO.. after going on 18 years I am looking for a new job that will respect me and my contributions. I should have left long ago. My mistake. Supervisors and coworkers can make or break a workplace. Unfortunately this manager in question is related to the owner.. and that my friends is another trainwreck.
AnonymousOctober 25,2022 at 12:39AM UTC
Most of us spend most of our waking hours with the people we work with. At this point in my career I have to weigh work that is engaging, a good company culture, flexibility, and growth opportunity in addition to salary. Stability is hard to gauge but it's something I'm trying to look at closely with a recession starting.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 12:41PM UTC
We had something similar happen with an employee.
She started with us and about a month later she had an offer from another company she had been talking to when interviewing. They offered her twice what we could pay. We wished her well and understood. While your new company may not be happy, most will understand.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 12:42PM UTC
Be transparent with your current employer to prevent burning a bridge. And as a leader: if I had a new hire presented with an opportunity like you describe I would support their decision to leave. Best of luck to you
Milissa JacobsOctober 20,2022 at 12:58PM UTC
Be upfront with your employer and tell them about the offer. If they really value you, maybe they will match it. Regardless, anyone would understand leaving for an opportunity with that much higher reimbursement package. Good luck!
D BOctober 20,2022 at 1:21PM UTC
Take the job. There are zero companies out there that care about you more than their bottom line and they will in fact release you without so much as a second thought. You do what is right for you. As they say, business is business. Take it and do not look back.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 1:53PM UTC
Totally agree with this. I've said this before...if you passed away today, your job would be posted before your obit was written. Do what's best for YOU. Good luck!
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 10:10PM UTC
This has been my sage advice to people through the years. A company won’t think twice about laying you off if it’s within their best interest. No one has your interest in mind except for you. Take the pay increase!!
Megan ConkleOctober 20,2022 at 1:23PM UTC
Be transparent and communicate with your current employer.
The harshest way to put it is that they will find a new you, but you might not have this same opportunity again.
As a woman, I feel like I feel much more guilt around "letting people down" at work, and I have to remind myself that at the end of the day, a job is just a job and if making a change is better for me personally, I have to be accountable to myself first.
Now, if there are other factors (ex: you really like the work culture at the current company, you feel valued, you are experiencing growth and fulfillment) that would keep you at your current role, that's a different story. But if it all seems the same except money, do what ya gotta do!
Juli FishOctober 20,2022 at 1:34PM UTC
I agree with this 100%. First of all, this is your career, how you will support yourself for the rest of your life. As a mid-life worker I wish I knew when I was younger that I was the only advocate I had for my pay and that it's okay to move around to get better pay. As long as you give appropriate notice and take the time to close out all current work to leave the current employer in a good position there should be no hard feelings. Be transparent to your boss and the company. You never know who you might be working with in the future. So if you want to progress your career and take the opportunity to make more money you should do it. You don't owe your current employer or co-workers anything more than doing a good job and being a good employee while you are there.
Being in leadership I would completely understand and encourage you to take the money when you can. Good luck!
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 1:35PM UTC
Outside of the comp, is it a job you would be happy at? Long term possibility, growth? Is it what you want to be doing?
Don't feel guilty about leaving current job. On the bright side, 3 months in you aren't fully established, perhaps they still have other candidates in the pipeline from you were initially interviewed and hired. But in the end, they can replace you. If you don't take this other job...are you going to be filled with regret, wondering "what if?"
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 1:51PM UTC
Do not feel guilty about any choice you make as long as it is the best choice for you.
A few things to consider:
What exactly are you looking for at this stage in your career?
Which job comes closer to fulfilling those needs?
Outside of comp does the culture, role, and career path aligns?
Will passing on the job make you always wonder about the possibilities if you would have taken it?
Only you can determine what is the right fit for you and you have to make that choice outside of the company you are currently with- guilt free. Only you will know your current situation.
If you do choose to separate you can try to maintain the relationship. You are 3 months in so still fresh and they can hopefully reach out to previous candidates.
Joycelyn M. SiameOctober 20,2022 at 2:03PM UTC
Money is just a piece of it. Is the company with the hiring freeze a good overall fit for you? Have you been given a chance to get a feel for the working environment? Just make sure to weight out your pros and cons, so you do not regret it later. Also, like many others said, yo can be transparent with your current company and let them know you are being offered a position elsewhere that is paying you more, and you can see whether or not they can match it. Express to them that you enjoy the company and your colleagues, so this is why you want to know if the salary can be matched.
Good luck with whichever direction you choose to go in!
Kim RaperOctober 20,2022 at 2:03PM UTC
I would weigh the pros and cons of both - and do not worry about leaving to take a better position. You have to do what is best for you, and if the new one is a better fit overall then take it and be professional about leaving the current one. This happens all the time, and its just one of those things that can happen. No need for guilt for bettering yourself.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 2:21PM UTC
I once left a job after 6 months to work with a previous, favorite boss at an agency he joined. The job I left was ok, but it was difficult to get work done. The new job offered a bump in pay and a chance to build something new. I resigned with as much grace as I could. Flash forward 2 years: I was laid off at the agency after the favorite boss quit and the business took a downturn. I was unemployed during an economic downturn for the better part of a year. While networking, I learned the boss I left was in a new company. I got up my courage and reached out. She hired me as a full time consultant. Whatever you decide, handle it with as much professionalism and grace as you can to maintain good relationships. It can be difficult to see the road ahead, but with grace, you can manage it!
Ashley BasilioOctober 20,2022 at 4:37PM UTC
If you like everything just as well or more than the current job it’s a no brainer.
Go for the money! You may feel guilty but that’s because you have a heart. In the end it’s just business. Good luck!
Erin Thomas, Career + Leadership CoachOctober 20,2022 at 4:49PM UTC
Assuming you get a good feeling of the culture, team, your supervisor, etc. then YES! 50% more is a game changer.
I might though first try to negotiate with your current employer and see if they'll match the increase, since you do like it there. This way also you're giving them the benefit of the doubt.
And if they can't match it, they can't blame you for leaving for this much more $$.
Kimberly GrahamOctober 20,2022 at 7:12PM UTC
A couple of thoughts come to mind. With the economy in question right now it's important that you look out for yourself financially and a 50% bump is huge. However, since you enjoy the people and culture of your current company you might want to be candid with your manager about your predicament since you might get a counter offer or perhaps insight into growth opportunities that are worth sticking around for. I realize that's challenging and a bit risky though. Also, I'd suggest evaluating the two companies beyond salary since benefits, PTO policy, stock options, etc. could help sway you as well as reviews. Good luck!
Sharon Miller-BassOctober 20,2022 at 11:07PM UTC
The older I am, the more I realize that money isn’t everything. Working for a company with a good culture is invaluable. Weigh all factors and ask your managers about what your long and short term opportunities might be. The salary gap could very well be a short term thing. Best of luck.
RenkeichanOctober 21,2022 at 1:17AM UTC
Are you under contract at your current position? As long as you don’t lose anything leaving your current job and the new job and all of its benefits align, then go for it!
AnonymousOctober 21,2022 at 1:52AM UTC
YES!!!! Congratulations!
AnonymousOctober 21,2022 at 11:30AM UTC
Why not?
Diane ReidOctober 21,2022 at 12:00PM UTC
Absolutely take the new job as long as the culture, position, etc are what you’re looking for!
AnonymousOctober 21,2022 at 12:27PM UTC
Well, I’ll tell you what I did, I had the same situation but in my case the first Job had an extensive interview process - while going through this the 2nd Job hires me..
(being out of work almost 2 years due to COVID) I took the job. A month after the 1st Job called me back and offered the position paying twice the amount. That same day I spoke with my manager and explained the situation, told him I was giving my two weeks notice, and appreciated the opportunity but I had an offer and that I was doing many interviews the same time I did theirs ( I felt a little bad) but No way was I passing on this deal—- So long story I know, but hopefully the environment and new colleagues are just as good at the new Job your at now and it works out!!! Congratulations
Amanda BurtOctober 21,2022 at 1:30PM UTC
No one will ever look out for you like your own self. No company is loyal to their employees. You have to look out for yourself. So go for it!
Rebecca MillikenOctober 21,2022 at 4:19PM UTC
I can't see most people holding it against you that you went with a job that pays so much better. It happens all the time. Look out for number one!
Melanie CoggenOctober 21,2022 at 7:14PM UTC
Yes, take the better paying job.
AnonymousOctober 21,2022 at 10:52PM UTC
I would suggest taking the job with a 50% pay raise if you feel that the company is stable.
Bertha GalindoDecember 12,2022 at 11:27AM UTC
As for me, you need to ask yourself one more question - "Which work brings me more satisfaction?". At least it's important to me
Tamara MillsJanuary 8,2023 at 8:46PM UTC
Just give your notice and go. How is this even a question?
Maureen MulveyJanuary 15,2023 at 1:55PM UTC
Always follow the money
Gina KeenanJanuary 19,2023 at 1:51PM UTC
Find your dream job! Rules have changed there is nothing owed. Self promote, don't wait for a company to do it. ?
AlexisJanuary 25,2023 at 2:37PM UTC
Don't feel guilty - it happens all the time and it's a business decision and the company who loses you will find a replacement...and the beat goes on.
Regina BrownFebruary 1,2023 at 11:15PM UTC
50% more? With THE organization the you really want to work with? Why do you feel guilty? The place where you want to be with the pay you want (and then some) where you can stay long term? Girl, pack your office or cubicle and go make you happy!!!
AnonymousFebruary 8,2023 at 3:50PM UTC
Don’t feel guilty. You have to do what’s best for you. Try to make your decision based on facts not feelings…
AnonymousFebruary 10,2023 at 10:21PM UTC
Like many others have said, don't feel guilty. You should do what's best for your family.
AnonymousFebruary 18,2023 at 11:10PM UTC
Don't feel guilty, they don't when they let you go. You do have to consider the work environment, stability of company, have they had layoffs, because you could be next. Money is not everything, peace of mind, less responsibility, fun work environment means a lot.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2023 at 10:55PM UTC
They will find someone to replace you who will be happy to have that job don't feel guilty
AnonymousFebruary 27,2023 at 7:23PM UTC
Despite all the commentary about going for the money, I would tend to disagree. Money doesn't buy happiness. I would re-interview the company that went on pause. Find out about folks that left during their difficult period and check to see the growth between then and now. If you truly are learning and like your current role, manager, company and co-workers and all that comes with then you can easily weigh out the options you have. Let the other company know you need to process this because you are not unhappy where you are. Be sure the content and the culture are going to be what you want if not you will regret burning the bridge and moving over. It's a champagne problem to have but make sure you thoroughly check things out.
ChristineMarch 8,2023 at 1:57PM UTC
It's just me...but I'm at the end of my working life not the beginning so I don't know where you are in your career. Personally, I'd be hesitant to leave just for the money. How important are you to your current company in terms of your role? They might be willing to maybe not match the increase you would get - but offer you some increase or a perk you'd find valuable. Of course, I wouldn't even put that out there unless you are fairly sure you would leave. In my experience, companies who are in hiring freezes may also be looking at other ways to save money. They may start having freezes as far as annual increases -- or they may start having layoffs. It would not be fun to leave a good job that you love for one that lasts only until their next string of layoffs. I'm not saying that will happen, but I'd see what I could find out about that aspect of the company that's offering so much more. I guess I think if they want to pay you that much more for basically the same role, you either took a cut when you took this job (understandable if you had been laid off prior) or they will want a lot more out of you than you realize. Research the job - and the company - and then think about whether the money is something you really need right now or do you need to be in a place where you are appreciated and treated respectfully (not to say you can't have both!) Lots to think about but bottom line, think about what you truly want and which company can best offer you that. Then if you decide to leave, make it clear how grateful you are for the last few months and that you feel you don't have an option. And maybe remain a bit longer than the usual notice time. If you show that it matters to you ....and if you live that way throughout your working life, you will be able to live with whatever choices you make and find the role that is just right for you! Good luck!!!
AnonymousMarch 20,2023 at 10:19PM UTC
They would fire you in a heartbeat. Do what is best for you.
AnonymousMarch 28,2023 at 10:26PM UTC
Yes, leave and don’t put it on your resume.
NayeliMarch 29,2023 at 5:11PM UTC
I would leave the current job and take the position. Do not add your current on a future resume. 50% wage increase is fantastic and you have put yourself in a deserving position. Congratulations!
AnonymousApril 5,2023 at 7:16PM UTC
why did they have a hiring freeze? and what happened that the freeze thawed?
AnonymousMay 4,2023 at 12:33PM UTC
Companies have no loyalty in regards to employees. Take the job if your excited
AnonymousJune 2,2023 at 12:24PM UTC
And there's no reason not to tell the current company that you had interviewed with them before you were hired at current position and they just came back and offered you 50% more in pay and you cannot turn that down. BUT do NOT do anything until you have the offer firmly in writing!
AnneJuly 5,2023 at 10:14PM UTC
And I cannot stress the written part enough.
AnonymousJune 15,2026 at 1:39PM UTC
Brilliant advice!
AnonymousJuly 9,2023 at 6:21PM UTC
Put you first. Take the new job (after in writing) - and put in your notice. When they ask - just be honest.
AnonymousJuly 26,2023 at 5:22AM UTC
Take the newly offered job.
It will be a great deal more difficult for you to secure a 50% salary increase at your current company than it will be for the company to find a new hire.
In addition, you started the process with the 50% increase company before you accepted the offer from your current employer, so no reason for guilt.
JillAugust 2,2023 at 1:56PM UTC
Don't feel guilty! Take the new job if you like the company! You may be getting underpaid at the job you are now.
AnonymousAugust 25,2023 at 12:05AM UTC
Factor in your happiness. If it were me I would re-interview with a few of the folks at the 1st company and go into their offices if possible. Let them know without making it about money that you are now in this dilemma of deciding to stay where you are or making the move. Don't let them convince you but you are now in the drivers seat for the decision. 3 things you need in any job good job content, good culture and good compensation. If you like where you are and feel satisfied and money is on the bottom of that list of 3 then stay. If money is your driver, then go.
AnonymousAugust 30,2023 at 4:18PM UTC
Take the new position.
AnonymousSeptember 23,2023 at 5:16PM UTC
Take the new job. Nothing personal; just business.
AnonymousOctober 8,2023 at 3:05AM UTC
Look out for you. The company looks out only for themselves - you owe them nothing.
PixelNovember 23,2025 at 6:15PM UTC
What they said! There is no loyalty in companies unless you actually "KNOW" someone who is like the CEO and that they'll look at for you. If their not doing that, forget it! Work the company x amount of years and get ready to move onto greener pastures. Don't time-sink invest in a company that's not going to give you good money, good packages, or good retirement, etc etc etc.
AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 4:22PM UTC
I’m deeply suspicious of companies who have a hiring freeze followed by then paying well over the odds… usually indicative of poor financial stability in a sector that’s currently growing rapidly.
If they want you badly enough to pay 50% more now then they’ll still want you in a year and you can assess their performance/retention rate in the meantime. The company you’re at now might be able to increase your salary in response to the new offer and they are clearly a good environment.
AnonymousApril 17,2024 at 2:19PM UTC
Or the company's hiring freeze was because of other strategic business activities such as acquiring a company or working through a year-end budget where an unexpected financial expense required such activities. Hiring freezes do not always point to financial instability, rather, they could be actions necessary to maintain financial stability and budgets.
Lana K French-MinnalaJanuary 23,2024 at 11:08PM UTC
Take the job and don't look back. Hiring freezes are sometimes common and doesn't mean the company is financially incompetent.
Andrea FJune 5,2024 at 2:22AM UTC
Absolutely!
T.S.January 30,2025 at 6:16PM UTC
If this company and the offered role still appeal to you, I would take their offer. A 50% increase in your salary is huge. It’s important to take advantage of this opportunity. I wouldn’t pay too much mind to upsetting your current company. Things like this happen.
VielayoFebruary 23,2025 at 3:13PM UTC
I’d take the higher-paying job. A 50% increase is huge, and while loyalty is admirable, companies focus on business first, so you should focus on yourself. I’ve been in a similar situation where I left a job after a few months for a better opportunity, and while I felt guilty at first, it was the right move long-term. Just be professional in your resignation, express gratitude, and move forward. Also, if you like continuous learning, checking out Brilliant Org reviews might be helpful for sharpening your skills in your new role.
AnonymousJuly 13,2025 at 4:04PM UTC
Do some research, speak to people who have left there about the culture and the ways that the company makes decisions. It's not always about money. If the current role is suiting you and you have strong potential there weigh out the cost of making a move and burning a bridge.
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