I've been offered a job that I'd love to accept, but the salary is too low. The employer says it can't be raised because it's based on a fixed rate. I'd hate to lose this opportunity over money. Is there anything I can do? – read answer

I've been unemployed for several months. Recently, I received a job offer; however, the pay proposal is $12,000 less than my previous salary. I can't decide whether I should decline the offer due to the cut in pay or if I should accept it in light of the present economic situation. My background is in accounting and I've been aggressively looking for a job since May. This is the first close offer that I've had, although I have two others pending. These jobs include higher pay but require up to 30% travel and I'm not sure that I want to do that.

Is a decrease in salary a valid reason to refuse a job? I'm afraid that if I accept the offer, I'll be unhappy and it will take me at least five years to earn the kind of salary I was previously making. I still could live comfortably without the additional $12,000 and the company benefits are decent. Still, I think I'd regret my decision because I'd have to reassess my financial goals such as purchasing a house and a vehicle. – read answer

I work for a commercial bank in an environment that I love and perform my job well. However, I'm not paid enough and wonder if I should quit for a better-paying job? – read answer

Everyone in my department received a year-end gift — an extra month's salary — except me. I know there's tension between my boss and me, but I'm efficient and a good team member. I've broken the news to everyone on my team, and they think it's unfair and cowardly of my boss to not approach the issue with a face-to-face conversation. What should I do? – read answer

I've been working for my current employer for about seven years. I've been promoted along the way and earned small salary increases. Because the economy is troubled, my superior has told me that we'll need to take a 5% to 10% pay decrease for the next 12 months. I'm not happy about this, but don't know how to counter his argument since the bottom line is falling revenues. What should I do? – read answer

I'm having problems making ends meet at the end of every month. I have a good job and make a reasonable salary, but have been divorced twice and am required to provide financial support for my previous wives. I'm in my third marriage and have two kids. Do I need to change jobs? – read answer

I am an intern (for 3 years ) and am very poorly paid (this is the rule for interns since we learn a lot and produce some at the beginning) and would love to have a raise. I came up with an idea . Can I suggest my boss to give me an extra amount if I do an outstanding job? – read answer

I've been interviewing for jobs for the past two months and found one that I think will be perfect. Due to the troubled economy, I'm nervous about negotiating for a higher salary, even though compensation hasn't been discussed yet. Maybe I should be thankful that I found a job and worry later about trying to get a pay increase if I don't like what I'm offered. What do you think? – read answer