Most employers expect salary negotiation. It is a normal part of the hiring process. Yet many candidates accept the first number they are offered simply because they are not sure it is appropriate to push back.
Do your research first
Before negotiating, check what the role pays in the current market. Use Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary Insights, Reed, Totaljobs or sector-specific salary surveys. Your negotiation should be anchored in data, not hope.
Let them make the first offer if possible
If asked for your salary expectation before an offer is made, try to redirect by asking what the budgeted range is for the role. This gives you information without anchoring yourself too low.
When you receive an offer
Do not accept immediately. Thank them, say you would like to review it, and come back within 24 to 48 hours with a counter. A counter of 10 to 15% above the offer is usually reasonable if supported by market data.
What else is negotiable
If salary is fixed, other elements may not be: start date, remote working, training budget, extra leave, pension contributions or a six-month review. Think of the total package.
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Ask Fin provides general guidance only. Tax and employment situations vary.