MAR001

Well, I have locked a second interview in Melbourne as per my threat before: http://britishexpats.com/forum/showt...81#post9611781

When I applied for the position I ticked $95k+ (the highest in the app) and now they are asking my salary expectations again.

My last salary in London in a similar role was £45K for a medium managerial position, it's suppose that this one is a senior managerial role and now I have an extra masters degree and other qualifications on my CV.

I think that is a terrible idea to discuss about numbers at this stage, but what do you think you think it can be a good salary in Melbourne considering that the industry is not that generous (publishing)? I looking for a number high enough to have a comfy life but keeping me in the competition with the other applicants.

Thanks!

Bermudashorts

If it were just an agent I would probably dodge the question but hard to do that when it is a direct question with employer. I must admit when my company HR do first round they always establish salary expectation so this probably is not unusual a question.

I think you need to have a think ... what is your salary expectation? Look for other, similar jobs what are they paying? The original salary they stated has to come into it too. Going from £45k in London to 95k in Melbourne seems like a little bit of a drop but sometimes and in some occupations that happens. My husband had to take a drop initially but within nine months he was promoted and ahead of where he was job and salary wise.

MAR001

Thank you Bermudashorts.
I got the number 95K+ in the application screening by simple selection. The add didn't have salary range so I perhaps have some room for negotiation. The salary for similar roles is in the region of 120 - 135k

I think that the best idea is to kindly avoid answering the question and talk about money after we meet each other in person and having a better look of the role, company, etc.. this will put me in a better position to negotiate in case they are interested.

spalen

If its a blue chip company then they will have already decided the salary range for the role. You have two options

- Ask them the salary range for the role, or for an offer.
- Askfor a number yourself - I'd ask for the 120K and let them explain why you cant have it.
- If they want you they'll make an offer regardless of what you say

dont cheapen yourself 120 isnt a lot of money - they'll tell you what they can afford/want to pay you and usually they'll have 10% on top in reserve.

BadgeIsBack

Yup - 95 too low. Almost taking the piss. 120 +.

Depends on the sector and market though.

JAJ

Also think about what visa you will have. With a permanent visa the chances of being paid below market rate is lower, as you have the ability to change employer.

MAR001

Thanks JAJ. I hold permanent residency ve-175

Icecube

As mentioned earlier the firm will probably have a salary band against which the job has been benchmarked.

Possible strategies would be to say that you are looking for remmuneration in line with the local market, commensurate with your skills, qualifications and experience. That would probably keep the recruitment pimps and HR happy by way of something to put on the form.

If push comes to shove then I would go on the higher side as you can always come back from that position. Almost impossible to go up from a low starting point. Put the ball in their court as to why they cannot pay your suggestion.

I also think that under A$100K is low ...

Best of luck