Nearly a third of hiring managers say jobseekers' pay expectations are higher than market rates, according to research commissioned by specialised recruiter Robert Half.
The survey of 300 hiring managers found 30 per cent said job applicants' expectations for remuneration were higher than current market rates, with 65 per cent in line and 5 per cent below average compensation rates.
However, in an encouraging sign for skilled jobseekers looking to negotiate higher starting salaries, 84 per cent of hiring managers willing to raise the initially-planned starting pay by an average of 10 per cent to secure top professionals, the company said.
Annual wage growth in the December quarter was 1.8 per cent.
Robert Half New Zealand general manager Megan Alexander said in a market characterised by a rising cost of living and static wage growth, many professionals were eager to negotiate an above-average starting salary.
"And with employers willing to entice job applicants with a salary in line with or even above market rates, professionals would benefit from staying abreast of what the skills in demand are in their sector and keeping their competencies up to date, making them an in-demand candidate," Alexander said.
"Jobseekers should always try to negotiate a competitive starting salary, and even if the offered salary doesn't meet their expectations, it's perfectly acceptable and common to request additional non-financial incentives such as additional leave and flexibility," she said.
