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Dear Quota Team

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I'm in a bit of an internal crisis and I'm not sure what the right thing to do is. I've been at the same company for 8 years. I had no background in business or sales, but the company took a chance on me and gave me a job on the customer service team. I worked hard and proved myself and earned a spot on the sales team. I definitely struggled at first, but I've been one of the top performers the last 2 years.

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I got an offer from another company to join their sales team. It's a huge salary bump for me. I sat on it for about a week before I brought it to my boss. I was pretty nervous, I didn't want to seem ungrateful for all the opportunities they've given me. My boss basically told me they won't be able to match the offer because of corporate policy. He said I'd be the highest paid salesperson at the company if they matched it and it wouldn't be fair to the rest of the team. They did offer to give me a 10% raise, but it's still not close to what the other company is offering me.

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What should I do? I'm really struggling here. They took a chance on me and have treated me really well. I lost both of my parents over the course of my employment here and they were very understanding/accommodating, giving me extended time off as I needed. I know it's cliche, but they really do feel like my second family in a way. I do feel like I owe my company some kind of loyalty. I don't want to be a traitor, but I'm considering going full Godfather — "It's not personal, it's strictly business" and taking the job.

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Unsure in Location Withheld 

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Dear Unsure 

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It’s a tough decision, and no matter which option you choose, you might be left with lingering doubts. The question you need to ask yourself is: what do you value most?

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Do you value the camaraderie and trust you get from working at a company like the one that employs you? It can be difficult to find a company that shows true loyalty. Like Gordon Gekko told Bud Fox about business in the movie Wall Street, “If you need a friend, get a dog.” 

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Or do you value upward mobility? The business of America is business and (aside from health and spiritual growth) money is the best way to change your lifestyle. A big pay bump can help you clear debt, save for retirement, and improve your family’s quality of life. 

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So what do you value most? There’s no right answer — only you can decide. Think it through, then march confidently in the direction you choose. Good luck!