How to negotiate your salary and your job offer

Know your market value before the conversation

Research what comparable roles pay in your sector, your region and at your level. Use job adverts, recruiters and people in your network. Aim to have a realistic range, not a single hope.

Understand the whole package

Salary is only one part of an offer. Before you respond, look at everything on the table:

• Base pay and any bonus, and how the bonus is actually earned.
• Pension contributions and other benefits.
• Holiday, flexibility and where you will work.
• Training, progression and review dates.

When to talk about money

Where you can, let the employer decide that they want you first. Once there is an offer, you are in the strongest position to discuss it. If you are asked about expectations earlier, give a range based on your research and say you would like to understand the full role.

What to say

Be warm, specific and calm. Thank them, say you are keen, and then ask whether there is any flexibility on the figure. Explain your reasoning in terms of the value you will bring and what the market pays.

Then stop talking. Silence is part of negotiation, and the other side needs time to respond.

If the answer is no

If the salary cannot move, ask about other things that can: a review after six months, a sign-on payment, extra holiday or a training budget. Get anything agreed in writing before you accept.