I really like the company, but the pay is quite low. I’m 21, have completed 11 papers, took one exam in March, and have just one left for June. While applying for jobs, I discovered that the pay scale in India is generally quite low. I attended several interviews, mostly with KPOs, and received two offers. Many companies seem to have bonds or salary retention schemes for two years to discourage turnover.
One of the KPOs, which has good reviews for flexibility and a manageable workload, offered a CTC of ₹25,000, with around ₹20,000 take-home. I find this salary low, especially since I’m nearing completion of my qualifications and felt that the interview went well, but they are not open to negotiation.
I’ve heard mixed feedback—some say that getting a CTC of ₹30,000 is doable at different firms, while others suggest that since this role has no bond, gaining experience might be beneficial. Thankfully, I’m not facing any financial issues at home, but I’m torn between accepting this offer or holding out for better opportunities.
Also, I’m curious about the Accounting sector in Australia. Should I consider moving into that field as an ACCA finalist, or is UK Accounting the better option? I’ve received an offer in that area as well.
One response
It sounds like you’re at an important crossroads in your career, and it’s great that you’re considering your options carefully. Here are some points to think about:
Experience vs. Salary: While the pay may seem low at ₹25k CTC, gaining experience can sometimes outweigh the immediate financial concerns, especially if you think the role will offer you valuable skills or exposure. A firm that is known for a good work culture and flexible hours can also provide a better work-life balance, which is important early in your career.
Negotiation Strategy: If you feel strongly about your worth, you might consider attempting one final conversation to negotiate. Sometimes companies can’t officially change the offer during the interview process but might have some flexibility they can offer after you have an official offer in hand.
Job Market and Future Opportunities: If you’ve heard that ₹30k CTC is common, it could be worth continuing your search, especially since you’re not under financial pressure. The job market can be competitive in India, but sometimes persistence leads to better opportunities.
International Accounting Experience: As for the Australian vs. UK Accounting sector, both have their pros and cons. UK Accounting generally has a robust market, but Australian accounting is also growing and may offer unique opportunities, especially if you’re leaning toward international experience. Consider where you see yourself in the future and which qualifications might align better with those goals.
Long-Term Career Goals: Think about your long-term career objectives. If joining a particular sector (like Australian accounting) aligns better with your aspirations, that might be the wiser choice over a KPO with a low salary.
Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons of accepting the KPO offer against the potential for better opportunities ahead. Trust your instincts and what you feel aligns best with your career goals. Good luck!