The Art of Negotiation: When to Walk Away from a Job Offer
When someone makes an offer or you make a request, you have entered into good faith negotiations. Both sides are trying to reach an agreed-upon conclusion that makes both sides feel good. (Although, it can feel like both sides are trying to 'win' at the expense of the other sometimes...)
You were interested in a position. You requested to be considered for that position. The other side wanted you to stay interested in the position so they sold you on the great industry, company, product/service they sell, awesome boss, great coworkers, excellent benefits/perks, and a healthy compensation package. You continued to show interest.
You requested $900. They countered with $800. You agreed because you believed the base pay to be $800. They clarified that the total compensation could be up to $800 (based on you hitting performance goals), but that the base would only be $700. You countered that you wanted a base of $800. They agreed with your request.
Now you are left with an uncomfortable feeling. That is odd because you opened with $900 and agreed to $800 base pay. They offered you the $800 base that you agreed to, plus they continue to offer the potential extra $100 based on your performance. The company believes they are offering you up to $900, which is your original request. It is true that you would have to meet the performance objectives to get the extra $100, but you 'won' the negotiation by getting the base that you agreed to ($800) plus the potential to get a bonus (up to $100).
Are you uncomfortable that a negotiation took a couple of rounds to reach agreement or are you actually concerned about something else? Also, if you don't really need the job, why did you apply?
At the end of the day, I think you have to go with your gut and simply tell them that you are no longer interested in the position. They say that sort of thing to candidates all the time so they should accept your decision. You do not need to give them a reason - just like they are not giving reasons to any of their candidates.
I think the reason is that you did not like how the negotiations went. Something made you uncomfortable enough that you want to walk away from their offer. Thus, if you did go to work for them, you would not have your full heart and mind engaged in your work. You would be suspicious and doubtful of everything senior leaders or your boss tells you. Don't do that to the company or yourself. Tell them, "No thank you, but I appreciate the opportunity and your time."
