Context: 41 year old construction worker with 20 years experience in my trade. Looking to stop swinging the hammer and get behind the desk.
After only one interview I got an offer for job I'm super qualified for. I applied and interviewed almost immediately. I killed the interview and later that day I got the notice that I would have an offer within a couple days. Today I received the offer from the CEO. It was 10K less than what I was asking for. I replied to the VP and told her I had a few questions and asked if I should negotiate with her or the CEO. While asking about day-to-day, benefits, hours, etc, she mentioned that this was a 55+ hour/week job. The math isn't working out. I told the VP that with those hours I need to be compensated with a higher salary. She asked to setup a meeting with the CEO, her and I. 2 hours later they both call. The CEO kept talking about thin margins, and “family dynamic” and room for growth, etc. I finally had to stop him. I respectfully told him that I knew his time is valuable and I didn't want to waste his time. I asked if he can meet me where I need to be, he said no and I thanked him for his time and the opportunity. I'm literally running out of money but I refuse to be played by my employer. I know my worth.