Compensation is one of the most common reasons a hiring process breaks down late. Talking about it openly and early saves everyone time.

For employers

Know your range before you start and be ready to explain what it covers. Candidates respond well to honest, clear information.

For candidates

Think about what you need and what you would consider fair for the role. Look at the whole package, not only the base pay.

Keep it respectful

  • Raise the topic early rather than at the final stage
  • Be honest about your expectations and constraints
  • Treat it as a shared problem to solve, not a contest

Look at the whole package

Salary is only one part of an offer. Consider benefits, flexibility, learning opportunities, working hours and the stability of the business. Different people weigh these differently, and being clear on your own priorities helps.

Do your homework

Candidates can research typical ranges for similar roles in their city and field. Employers can do the same to make sure their offer is competitive and fair. Treat any figures you find as a guide rather than a rule.

Stay flexible but honest

It is fine to negotiate respectfully. Be open about your reasoning and listen to the other side. If the gap is too wide, it is better to part on good terms early than to proceed with an arrangement that will not work.

Words that help

A candidate might say: 'Based on the responsibilities we discussed, I am looking for a range of this size, and I am open to talking about the whole package.' An employer might say: 'The range for this role is this, and here is what it includes.' Straightforward statements like these keep the conversation constructive.

At the offer stage

Give the offer in writing, explain each element and allow reasonable time to consider it. Candidates should ask questions about anything unclear, such as how variable pay works or when reviews happen.

Think in terms of total reward

Compare pay, benefits, working hours, flexibility, learning and stability together. Two offers with the same base pay can be very different once you add everything up.