The Economic Times

Employee lands new job after being fired, but hesitates to join Internets advice is a lesson for many

Professionals are navigating a volatile 2026 job market by using safety net offers to fuel high-stakes negotiations. Securing a $110,000 baseline provides the psychological leverage needed to fast-track FAANG interviews paying $165,000+. Data shows that at-will flexibility allows candidates to prioritize risk-adjusted stability over raw salary. This strategic honesty often lands better fits. Ultimately, a bird in hand accelerates market velocity for displaced high-earners seeking long-term security.