Facing the dreaded pay cut question during job interviews can make even the most confident professionals break into a sweat. But according to renowned entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo, this doesn't have to be a trap that costs you the job or your desired salary.
The Yes-or-No Trap That Costs Candidates
Warikoo emphasizes that most candidates make a critical mistake when asked about accepting a pay cut: they immediately answer with a simple "yes" or "no." This binary approach puts you at a significant disadvantage and can undermine your negotiating position.
"When you're asked, 'Are you willing to take a pay cut?' and you immediately say yes or no, you've already lost," Warikoo explains in his viral LinkedIn post that has garnered significant attention from professionals across India.
Warikoo's Strategic Approach
Instead of falling into this common trap, Warikoo recommends a more nuanced approach that focuses on understanding the context behind the question:
- Seek clarity first: Before committing to anything, understand why the question is being asked
- Ask strategic questions: Inquire about growth opportunities and performance-based increments
- Focus on value: Emphasize what you bring to the table rather than what you're willing to sacrifice
The Power of Counter-Questions
Warikoo suggests responding with thoughtful questions of your own, such as:
- "Could you help me understand the reason behind this pay structure?"
- "What growth opportunities exist that might compensate for the initial difference?"
- "How quickly do performance-based increments typically occur in this role?"
This approach transforms the conversation from a simple salary discussion to a more comprehensive dialogue about your career path and value within the organization.
Turning Challenge into Opportunity
According to Warikoo, the pay cut question isn't necessarily a red flag. It could indicate various scenarios:
- The company might be testing your interest level and flexibility
- There could be budget constraints you should understand
- They might be assessing your negotiation skills
- It could reveal information about the company's compensation philosophy
"The key is to approach this as a negotiation rather than an ultimatum," Warikoo emphasizes. "Your response should demonstrate both flexibility and an understanding of your own worth."
Practical Implementation Tips
For professionals navigating today's competitive job market, Warikoo offers these actionable strategies:
- Research industry standards and company compensation trends beforehand
- Prepare your counter-questions in advance
- Practice delivering your responses confidently
- Consider the complete compensation package, not just base salary
- Evaluate long-term growth potential against short-term financial impact
This expert advice comes at a crucial time when many Indian professionals are navigating career transitions and facing new interview challenges in evolving job markets.
