Question: I relocated to Pennsylvania from Virginia three months ago and have just received a new job offer in Orlando, Fla., for a similar position but with higher pay. Even though I am paid well and am happy with my current position here, I am thinking about accepting the new, higher-paying position. Is this ethical and will I have to pay back the relocation benefits I received?

-- Leon, Philadelphia

Leon: Be sure you have a clear idea of how the alternative stacks up against your current situation. Rarely is money alone a sufficient reason to jump to another position. Maybe the Orlando slot promises qualities and opportunities that are lacking in your current position, or, on the contrary, although the pay may be slightly higher in Orlando, the work environment might be horrendous.

To avoid falling into a pattern of false starts, create a profile of the ideal job, employer, work environment, supervisory style, salary/benefits and geographic location. Before making a final decision on this and future opportunities, get clear on your values and do your homework on the company to determine the match that will work best for you and the employer.

Burning bridges now with your current employer may come back to haunt you at a future time in your career. If you are determined that accepting the Orlando position is in your best interest, and you are also genuinely concerned about the ethics of prematurely bailing on your current employer, then offer to pay back the relocation costs. That gesture will allow you to make the move, ease your conscience and help the company recoup some of its lost investment in you.