Have you ever taken a salary cut with a new job? For many, the thought of accepting less money to move on to something better is repulsive, especially if their lifestyle is, shall we say, a bit on the extravagant side.

But there are times in your job search when you might have to swallow your pride and take a hit in the wallet. Here are four situations in which a salary cut might be a wise decision:

• You're unemployed, your benefits are running out, and you need a job to avoid financial disaster.
• Your chances of moving up are better with a new employer, even if it means taking a step or two back in your career path before you move forward.
• You loathe your current job, so you take one that pays less than what you really want to save your health and sanity.
• Your new employer offers a smaller salary but pays for more of your benefits, giving you a slight gain in overall compensation.

In today's economy, employers hold the upper hand in hiring since there are many more applicants chasing fewer job openings, So, salary can become a critical factor in a hiring decision (such as if an employer has three very qualified candidates, with one willing to be paid less than the others). It's simple supply and demand. Also, many employers have forced pay cuts on their existing staffs, putting more downward pressure on salaries and justifying lower salary offers.

You may find it difficult to accept a lower salary offer, but it may be a good move. To make the decision easier, it's important to know the salary range for the positions you're seeking, as well as trends in the economy and your industry to help shape your salary expectations.

Would you take a salary cut with a new job? Take our poll and add a comment.

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