<p>Considering a new job to increase your salary, or wondering how to get a payrise? A <a href="/job-seeker/salary-checker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">salary calculator</a> can be a great way to ensure you know how much you’re worth.</p>
<p>With so many average wage stats and monthly salary calculators online, where on earth should you start and how do you know the salary information is up-to-date?<br>Our tops tips quickly help point you in the right direction.</p>
<h3>UK salary calculators - location, location, location.</h3>
<p>When you’re surfing the net for salary information, keep an eye on the location. A good <a href="/job-seeker/salary-checker/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">salary checker</a> will allow you to search regionally. The more specific you are, the more accurate the average wage information you’ll find. A <a href="/jobs/q-software-developer" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">software developer</a> job in London is likely to offer a higher salary than a similar role in Birmingham for example.</p>
<p>Also look for a wage calculator which doesn’t just tell you the average annual salary but gives you a low to high sliding scale. This helps you set pay offer targets and ensure you don’t accept a job offer that doesn’t meet industry expectations.</p>
<h3>the people behind the numbers.</h3>
<p>As helpful as salary calculators are, don’t let them be your only source of salary data. Whilst speaking with other industry peers, friends and/or family roles can also help steer you in the direction, it’s often not always appropriate to ask your colleagues about their salary. Be warned - you’ll quickly find that many individuals don’t feel comfortable talking about their salary or they enhance their package to impress others. </p>
<p><a href="/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Speaking with your local expert recruitment consultant</a> can be a great way to get some insider salary information. An annual salary calculator can be useful but seasonal trends and/or skills shortages can quickly increase salaries and packages. If your skills are in demand and lots of employers are hiring, you’re in a stronger position to negotiate.</p>
<h3>salary search by industry.</h3>
<p>After conducting some initial research using an online salary calculator, take some time to do some additional reading. Most recruiters produce detailed salary guides and salary surveys. Randstad’s <a href="/job-seeker/areas-of-expertise/financial-services/salary-survey/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2019 salary survey</a> looks at pay grades across different sectors for a range of common job titles. The guides are typically arranged by function and by location too. </p>
<h3>monthly, annual or hourly?</h3>
<p>Always think about how you secure the best salary information. A good salary calculator will take into considering whether you’re in a temp or perm job role. Many manufacturing roles calculate pay by hour, whether construction jobs may be project or salary-based. Take time to consider the additional benefits you’re likely to enjoy should you pursue a permanent position. Our article on the <a href="/career-advice/work-life/contracting-vs-permanent-vs-temporary-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">different employment types</a> could be very helpful if you’re unsure.</p>
<p>If you’re paid by the hour, always be mindful of the minimum wage thresholds.</p>
<p>Now you’re armed with all the salary advice and information you need, it’s over to you to decide whether it’s time to <a href="/career-advice/career-guidance/new-job-new-you/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">look for a new job</a> or whether to <a href="/career-advice/salary/two-simple-ways-to-boost-your-salary/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ask for a payrise</a> to boost your salary.</p>
