September Hiring: Salary Expectations, Competition & What Candidates Need to Know

September is often seen as a fresh start in the jobs market. After the summer slowdown, businesses return to full capacity, hiring plans move forward and candidates who have been considering a career move begin actively exploring their options. For anyone thinking about making a move this September, one of the biggest questions is likely to be: What salary should I be expecting? At the same time, employers are considering how to attract the right people in a competitive market without losing sight of their budgets. So, how should candidates and employers approach salary expectations as we head into the busy autumn hiring period?

Know Your Market Value

One of the most important things candidates can do before starting a job search is understand what their experience is currently worth in the market. Salary should not be based solely on what you are earning now. Factors such as your level of experience, qualifications, specialist skills, industry, responsibilities and the type of organisation you are applying to can all influence your market value. It is also worth looking beyond the job title. Two roles with the same title can have very different responsibilities and salary levels depending on the company and seniority of the position.

Don’t Price Yourself Out – But Don’t Undersell Yourself Either

Salary conversations can be difficult. Ask for too much and you may find yourself outside the employer’s budget. Ask for too little and you could accept an offer that doesn’t reflect your experience or the value you bring. Working with Link Personnel, we will be able to help guide you with this and have insight into what our clients are willing to go up to for salary. Call 01 845 6302 for a confidential chat. 

It is also important to consider the full package. Hybrid working, flexibility, pension contributions, bonus opportunities, annual leave, progression and professional development can all form part of the overall value of a role.

Employers Need to Move Quickly

One of the biggest mistakes an employer can make is assuming that a good candidate will still be available several weeks later. Candidates are also making decisions based on the overall recruitment experience. A lengthy process, unclear communication or delays between interview stages can cause candidates to lose interest or accept another offer. That doesn’t mean rushing the recruitment process. It means having a clear process, communicating effectively and making decisions when the right candidate is identified.

Look Beyond Salary

While salary is important, candidates are increasingly considering the complete employment package when deciding whether to make a move.

For example:

• Is there flexibility around working arrangements?
• Is there a clear opportunity for career progression?
• What is the company culture like?
• Is there a strong benefits package?
• Will the role provide new skills and experience?
• Is the commute manageable?

What About Employers?

For employers, September is a good time to review existing vacancies and upcoming recruitment plans. If a position has been open for some time, it may be worth asking whether the salary and overall package remain competitive. Sometimes the issue isn’t a lack of candidates, it is that the right candidates are not being attracted by the package being offered.

A realistic salary range, a clear job description and an efficient recruitment process can make a significant difference when competing for talent.

Looking for your next opportunity?
If you’re considering a career move, speak to one of our consultants to discuss your experience and the types of opportunities you’re interested in.
Call Link Personnel on 01 845 6302 to register with us and find out about current opportunities.

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