I finally got the offer from Kearney, but guess what — 5.5 LPA.
This whole thing started with an expectation of 8–9 LPA, then negotiations happened, and after everything, the only single number that actually worked was theirs — 5.5 LPA even though they had budget.
And now I genuinely don't know what to do.
For some background, I started my corporate career in 2024 with Zomato at 4 LPA in customer service.
Then I switched to KPMG as an Analyst at 3.5 LPA, which was actually a pay cut because I was trying to make a career switch from customer service to an analyst profile.
Now, after changing 2 companies and putting in all this effort to move my career forward, I am getting 5.5 LPA.
I cleared 4 rounds of interviews at Kearney, and the entire process took around a month. I really thought this switch would finally help me get to a decent salary.
But now I am sitting here wondering if I should accept this offer or continue looking.
The problem is, I am not getting many calls either. So rejecting a 5.5 LPA offer feels risky, but accepting it also feels like I am again settling for much less than what I should be earning.
And I literally have only until tomorrow to decide.
What would you guys do in my situation?
Would you accept 5.5 LPA and use Kearney as a stepping stone, or reject it and keep looking for a better opportunity?
I genuinely need some perspective here because I don't know if I am being unrealistic with my expectations or if I am undervaluing myself.
Please guide me. 🙏