Salary isn't everything when searching for a job.

I chose a job offer that had a lesser pay.

Why? Empathy.

During this pandemic, I used some of my time to apply and find a job I would like, and I was fortunate enough to receive numerous job offers. I narrowed them down to two.

Company A gave me 5,000 pesos more than what Company B could offer for an identical job, for the same hours. Naturally, I should've taken it right?

However, when I was about to sign my contract for Company A, they were forcing me to cross regional lockdown checkpoints to start the orientation and sign the contract in-despite of what I said about the availability of public utility vehicles.

I thought she would understand but Company A's HR Executive told me "wala ka ba talagang masasabayan?, bigyan kita ng letter para pwede ka mag cross" (Can't you find someone to take you? I'll give you a letter so you can cross.)

Even if i insisted that it wasn't safe.

As a candidate, that was a huge turn off for me. I wasn't an employee yet and they were already ready to risk my health just to sign a contract and attend an orientation. What more when they already hold my livelihood?

Now, I'm about to start my job at Company B and I believe I truly made the right decision. This company went out of their way to fast track my application when they found out I was offered something else. They also delivered a laptop with all the files and programs I'll be needing so that WFH (work from home) could be done easily just until everything is settled.

This company is already doing its best to make sure I was comfortable even if I haven't completed my requirements nor my contract. I felt valued and eager to do my best for this company.

So recruiters, please don't forget to empathize on what your applicants are feeling and experiencing, because it will definitely make or break an application.