In this market where skills are in demand considering a new job, salary is often the most prominent factor that comes to mind. While it’s natural to want more and feel that you can ask for anything, this can put too much emphasis on salary and be detrimental to job satisfaction and career growth.

Here are five major things to remember before demanding an unrealistic big salary:

1. Job fulfillment: A high salary doesn’t necessarily equate to job satisfaction. A job that is unfulfilling, or doesn’t align with your personal or professional values, may not provide the job fulfillment that you need to stay engaged and committed. Examine the job itself, the people you will work with, the company culture, and other aspects that contribute to job satisfaction.

2. Benefits: Salary is one aspect of financial compensation, but benefits should also be considered. Benefits may include health and well-being programs, hybrid working environment, time in leu, flexible work arrangements, and more. Evaluate the other benefits to thoroughly understand the complete financial package, beyond just the salary.

3. Professional development: The opportunity for professional growth is an important factor to consider. A job with a competitive salary, but no support or opportunities for growth and advancement, may limit your potential over time. Consider the opportunities for skill-building and growing with the business naturally once you are in a company proving your skills.

4. Perception: Before you go to your potential employer or representative and say you will not move unless you receive the big $$$ think about whether this is realistic and whether this is what you really want. I know we are all thinking of the global economy and rising expenditure.
Research has shown that money is not the answer to everything. If you ask for too much money studies have shown that were published in the Journal of Applied Psychology that this equates to more stress, more pressure, and expectations from the employer.

5. No job offer: More demands may equal a poor fit from the perspective of the employer they may thing that you might end up hurting the morale of the team. The employer wants to empower their staff by providing support, and not micromanaging or carefully watch an overpaid one.

In conclusion, consider realistically what you should be expecting in terms of market salary. Your future employer should see your value and want to help you grow. Remember to take into consideration the other benefits that will give you the quality of life you are looking for. It is known that less stress at work means a happy employee, which translates to better quality work and productivity. Also, a happy employee is also more likely to be a healthy one who eats well, exercises, and has fewer health problems.

Arcadia Recruitment are specialist in Architecture, Design and Planning in Brisbane if you would like help with finding your new role, please feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion.

Written by Caroline Sanders – Director of Arcadia Recruitment