Salary negotiation can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re starting a new role or looking for a raise in your current one, knowing how to approach the conversation with confidence is key to getting what you deserve.
At NMS Recruit, we regularly support candidates through every stage of the recruitment process, including negotiating offers. If the thought of talking money makes you squirm, don’t worry. Here’s how to approach salary negotiations with clarity, professionalism, and confidence.
Know Your Worth
Before you even think about entering a negotiation, do your research. Understanding what others in your industry, location, and level of experience are earning will give you a solid benchmark to work from.
Where to start:
Use salary comparison tools like Glassdoor, Reed, or Payscale.
Speak to recruiters (like us!) who specialise in your sector.
Look at current job ads with similar roles and responsibilities.
Pro tip: Don’t just focus on job titles. Look at responsibilities, skills, and company size to get an accurate picture.
Understand the Full Package
Salary isn’t everything. Before entering a negotiation, make sure you’ve considered the full compensation package, which might include:
Bonuses or commission
Pension contributions
Flexible/hybrid working
Annual leave entitlement
Healthcare
Career development opportunities
Knowing what matters most to you will help you negotiate with purpose. Also, be open to compromise if the salary isn’t flexible.
Practice Your Pitch
It’s not about demanding more money, it’s about clearly demonstrating why you’re worth it. Frame your value in terms of outcomes, not just responsibilities.
For example:
“In my last role, I increased client retention by 20%, resulting in a significant boost in revenue.”
“I consistently exceeded my sales targets and brought in £500K+ in new business last year.”
Be prepared to highlight your strengths and how they align with the company’s goals. Practice with a friend, mentor, or recruiter so your delivery is smooth and confident.
Time It Right
If you’re negotiating as part of a job offer, the best time to talk about salary is after you’ve been offered the role...not in your first interview.
If you’re negotiating a raise in your current role, aim to time the conversation around:
Annual performance reviews
After a successful project delivery
When your responsibilities have increased
Going in when the company is performing well or when you’ve had recent wins puts you in a stronger position.
Be Clear and Professional
Approach the conversation with positivity and professionalism. Be clear about what you’re asking for andwhy. Avoid ultimatums or emotional reasoning.
Try saying:
“Based on my research and experience, I believe £X is a fair reflection of the value I can bring to this role.”
“I’m really excited about the opportunity and would love to move forward. Can we discuss the salary to ensure it aligns with market expectations?”
Avoid language like “I need…” or “I deserve…”and stick to facts and value.
Be Prepared for Pushback
Not all negotiations end in a “yes”,and that’s okay. Employers may have budget constraints, internal salary bands, or other factors at play.
If you get a “no,” ask if there’s room for review after a set period (e.g., 3–6 months), or explore whether other parts of the package could be improved, such as:
Additional holiday
Training budget
Flexible hours
Negotiation isn’t always about getting more now, but it’s about starting the conversation.
Know When to Walk Away
If the offer doesn’t meet your minimum expectations and there’s no room for movement, it’s okay to politely decline. Accepting a salary that leaves you feeling undervalued can lead to resentment and frustration further down the line.
That said, always be respectful and leave the door open. How you handle negotiations reflects your professionalism, even if the outcome isn’t what you hoped for.
Our Thoughts
Negotiating your salary doesn’t have to be scary! It’s a normal, expected part of the recruitment process. With the right preparation and mindset, you can approach the conversation confidently and increase your chances of securing a package that reflects your true value.
At NMS Recruit, we’re here to support candidates through every stage of the job hunt; from writing a winning CV to helping you negotiate the offer you deserve. If you’re ready to make your next career move, let’s talk.
