HeadHunter arranged interview... can I reject the offer without ruining relationship?

Hi Monkeys,

Been working with a headhunter who has been very useful so far in my job search. Really nice bloke.

He set me up to interview for a niche firm that had pretty sub-par comp for the role. I went along anyway as I thought it would be good interview practice and I wouldn't need to prep since I wouldn't be going there. Long story short, I got an offer and don't really want to work for relative low comp. How do I reject the offer and what reason should I give?

Cheers

 

Makes sense - I'll have to try to concoct the right phraseology. If anyone could chime in with examples, would be super grateful. First time negotiating pay since my internship was at a big institution.

Also, do you think it's a good idea to start my career in a specific niche of finance. Fund research to be specific? Feels like a downgrade after MF PE but given current recruiting climate...

 

Yes, it's significantly lower than market for similar roles but I thought I would interview anyway for the practice. 

Advice on reasons to give?

 
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