I have made it to the next interview with a nonprofit job, that I am extremely interested in.

5 Comments

1. AnonymousDecember 24,2024 at 2:55PM UTC

   Toxic company is more likely to change you - then you change it. I lost a 50k vesting to escape a toxic situation - I made it back in the end.

   Get out. If the new opportunity isn’t a great fit financially - keep looking.

2. AnonymousDecember 24,2024 at 3:02PM UTC

   Your financial security is highly personal. So if you can risk being laid off or feel that you will easily be hired if let go then the urgency is far less than if stability and a steady income is needed for your financial health.

   Nonprofits generally pay far less than the for-profit sector. They are also less dynamic in career growth but a bit more stable in terms of predictability as long as funding is consistent.

3. AnonymousDecember 24,2024 at 5:54PM UTC

   If layoffs are happening and you’re possibly going to be laid off, does the company offer severance? Could you negotiate that? Then take the difference in what you earn now versus the next possible at 20k less, will you make that up in severance? If not go for the next role and take the cut. Then consider tightening up the purse strings for a year but keep looking (whether that be daycare if you’re working from home that will save you tons, dining out, etc.). Student loans ask for a forbearance. I’ve done it several times until I reached the 10 year mark as a public servant and was granted Public Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Look also at state jobs and state supported higher ed jobs. Lots of benefits there.

4. Sacred MythDecember 29,2024 at 2:53PM UTC

   Let them know the situation and ask if you can have measurable value-building deliverables that can be directly tied to a raise within 3-6 months. Get it in writing in your contract.

5. AnonymousJanuary 1,2025 at 6:10PM UTC

   Sometimes pivoting away from toxicity/ burnout leads to a safe place- for the interim.

   Run your numbers. $20k less is a lot for some folks. What can you negotiate that is the equivalent of $20K? Flexible hours, professional development, a benefit that could help with your priorities? Perhaps they have a timescale for promotions, etc.?

   Some nonprofits are wonderful. Some rely on scope creep (you work whenever because it's for the cause). Make sure you know what you're getting into.

   Negotiate something that would make the $20K loss worthwhile. If the toxic environment is just awful, maybe the jump is worth it (you can always jump again).

   Good luck!