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Cambridge Hub: 01223 628740
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TemporaryWhen writing or updating your CV, there are plenty of things to think about. Your experience, qualifications, skills and achievements will usually take priority, but there is one question that job seekers often ask us.
Salary can sometimes feel like an awkward subject, particularly when you are applying for a new job. You want to make sure you are being realistic about what you are looking for without potentially limiting your opportunities.
So, should salary expectations be included on your CV, or is it a conversation best saved for later in the recruitment process?
In most cases, we would recommend leaving your salary expectations off your CV unless the employer or recruiter has specifically asked you to include them.
Your CV should primarily focus on selling your experience, skills and suitability for the job. Its purpose is to help an employer understand what you could bring to their business and encourage them to invite you to the next stage of the recruitment process.
Adding a salary figure too early can sometimes create an unnecessary barrier.
For example, you may put £35,000 on your CV, but the employer could have a budget of up to £40,000. Equally, if your expectations are slightly above their original budget, they may still have been willing to have a conversation after seeing how well your experience matched the role.
By leaving salary expectations off your CV, you give yourself more opportunity to discuss the complete package once both you and the employer know more about each other.
Sometimes a job advert or application form will specifically ask candidates to provide their expected salary.
If this is the case, be realistic and do some research before answering.
Look at similar jobs in your area and consider the level of experience required, the responsibilities involved and the typical salary range within your industry.
You should also think about more than your basic salary. A job offering a slightly lower salary could provide better working hours, additional annual leave, bonuses, private healthcare, enhanced pension contributions or better career progression.
The overall package matters.
If possible, providing a salary range rather than one fixed figure can give you more flexibility. For example, you might state that you are looking for a salary in the region of £35,000 to £40,000 depending on the overall package and responsibilities.
There is generally no need to include your current salary on your CV.
Your current salary does not necessarily determine what you should earn in your next position.
Perhaps you have taken on considerably more responsibility since your last salary review. You may have gained additional qualifications or developed specialist skills. You could simply be working for an employer that pays below the current market rate.
Your next salary should reflect the position you are applying for, your experience and the value you can bring to the employer.
Salary conversations can happen at different stages depending on the employer and recruitment process.
When working with a recruitment agency, salary expectations will often be discussed during the initial conversation. This allows your recruiter to understand what you are looking for and make sure the vacancies they discuss with you are suitable.
Being open with your recruiter is important.
If you are currently earning £32,000 and would only consider moving for £36,000 or above, tell them. Equally, if salary is less important to you than finding a role closer to home, securing better working hours or progressing your career, that is useful information too.
A good recruiter should understand what is motivating your job search rather than simply focusing on one number.
Knowing your salary expectations can be difficult, particularly if you have been with the same employer for several years.
Start by researching similar job vacancies in your area. Look at positions requiring comparable experience and responsibilities rather than relying purely on the job title.
Location can also have a significant impact on salaries. A Maintenance Engineer salary in Cambridge, for example, may be different from the salary offered for a similar position elsewhere in the UK.
Think about your own experience too. Consider your qualifications, specialist knowledge, management responsibilities, industry experience and any additional skills that could make you particularly valuable to an employer.
Recruitment agencies can also provide useful insight into the local job market and current salary levels.
You have probably seen job adverts that describe the salary as competitive or depending on experience.
It is perfectly reasonable to ask about the salary range before progressing too far with an application.
Salary is an important part of deciding whether a job is right for you, and discussing it early can prevent both you and the employer from wasting time.
When applying through Busy Bee Recruitment, our consultants can discuss the salary, working hours, benefits and other important details with you before putting you forward for a position.
Salary Is Important, But Look at the Bigger Picture
It is completely understandable for salary to be one of the biggest considerations when looking for a new job, but it should not always be viewed in isolation.
Before accepting a new position, consider the complete opportunity.
How long will your commute be? What are the working hours? Is overtime available? How much annual leave will you receive? Is there a bonus scheme? What pension does the company offer? Is there genuine career progression? Will you enjoy the working environment?
A £2,000 increase in salary might look attractive initially, but it may not feel like an improvement if you are adding an hour to your daily commute.
The right opportunity will depend on what matters most to you.
At Busy Bee Recruitment, we work with candidates across Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Norfolk and the surrounding areas, helping people find temporary and permanent opportunities across Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial, Office Support, Customer Service, Sales and Marketing.
Whether you are actively searching for a new job or simply want to understand what opportunities and salaries are currently available in your area, our team would be happy to have a confidential conversation.
Take a look at our latest vacancies or get in touch with Busy Bee Recruitment to discuss your next career move.
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When writing or updating your CV, there are plenty of things to think about. Your experience, qualifications, skills and achievements will usually take priority, but there is one question that job seekers often ask us.Should you put your salary expectations on your CV?
