Getting the right salary for your next civilian job role can be difficult, but there are practical steps you can take.
Nick Everard, a former Army officer and Managing Director of J1 Consulting, and Fiona Jackson, an OA Career Consultant, share their advice.
More than salary
Before negotiating the salary for your new job, understand the full pay package being offered. In addition to the salary, your pay package can include pension, company benefits, equity and bonuses. You can research what the pay package could be in other industries by visiting The Job Crowd and Glass Door. You can then compare this with your full military pay package, using the MOD Benefits Calculator.
Play the long game
The type of organisation you work for can affect the salary for the same job role. Smaller organisations are more likely to offer a lower salary if newly formed or a higher one if a successful business.
Focus less on the starting salary and more on potential career progression. If the organisation offers good prospects, and you positively contribute to the company, then you could be promoted soon with an increased salary. A larger organisation is likely to offer better career opportunities. However, do not expect your good work to be noticed and rewarded; you will still need to be assertive and demonstrate your achievements.
Consider working for a recognised larger brand, because it is easier to then transfer to a smaller organisation. You may find it harder to move from a small organisation to a larger one, which could impact your longer term earnings.
