might not be a popular opinion, but different perspective. during pandemic, demand was high and employees where asking anywhere from 60% to 100% hikes to do the same job. no one complained. people were ready to jump every 6 months in search for more pay without thinking career, is the position impacting the company or anything of that sorts. founders (esp smaller ones) had tough time meeting insane demands. people were asking for joining bonus (an insane concept in my view) to the tune of 50% of annual salary.

Now the tables have turned. so if former is accepted then later also has to be accepted without complaints. just how things work in this new age.