Archive · 5 Nov 2025
Ankur Warikoo's Tip for Handling 'Pay Cut' Job Interview Questions
Imagine you're at a job interview and they ask if you'd take less money.
Saying a simple 'yes' or 'no' isn't the best idea.
If you say yes, you might not get paid what you're worth.
If you say no, they might think you're not flexible.
Instead, an expert named Ankur Warikoo suggests asking questions.
You can ask about the whole package, like bonuses or extra benefits, not just the base pay.
You can also ask about how you can grow in the job.
This shows you know your value and are thinking about the whole opportunity.
It helps the interviewer see that you are smart and looking for more than just a number.
It keeps the door open for a fair discussion about your pay and future.
Ankur Warikoo advises against simple 'yes' or 'no' answers to pay cut questions in job interviews.
A direct refusal can close doors, while immediate acceptance undervalues your skills.
Candidates should focus on the total compensation package, including salary, bonuses, equity, benefits, and perks.
Warikoo suggests asking about the role's growth trajectory and performance milestones.
This strategic approach shifts focus to long-term value and encourages the interviewer to justify the role's worth.
- Who
- Ankur Warikoo, entrepreneur and content creator
- What
- Offers a strategic approach to answering interview questions about accepting a pay cut
- When
- During a job interview
- Where
- Job interview context
- Why
- To avoid undervaluing oneself and keep negotiation options open by focusing on total compensation and growth.
- Expert Advice Source
- Ankur Warikoo, entrepreneur and content creator
- Core Strategy
- Shift focus from immediate salary to total compensation and long-term value.
- Recommended Approach
- Ask open-ended questions about the total compensation structure and growth trajectory.
- Reasoning
- Avoids immediate undervaluation and keeps negotiation open.
- Total Compensation Components
- Base salary, bonuses, equity, benefits, and perks.