When Taking a Step Back in Pay Actually Moves You Forward

18/11/2025 30 min

Listen "When Taking a Step Back in Pay Actually Moves You Forward"

Episode Synopsis

When is it actually okay to take a step back in pay? In today’s job market, many people are facing roles that pay less than what they’ve earned in the past. But a lower salary doesn’t always mean a bad decision. In this episode of The 2Talented Podcast, Graham and Corinne break down the real reasons you might strategically accept less pay and how doing so can set you up for long-term success.We cover when it makes sense to take a pay cut, including:• Changing industries when yours is struggling• Making a career switch and needing to “reset”• Gaining valuable perks like flexibility, remote work, or better hours• Moving to a lower-cost location and navigating the “geo diff”• Taking a temporary step back to unlock better future opportunitiesTaking a step backwards doesn’t mean your career is going backwards. Sometimes it’s the smartest way to move toward stability, growth, and a more fulfilling work life.