Assessing Potential Salary: When to Negotiate and When to Walk Away
In this 5-minute read, discover how to approach salary discussions with confidence during the recruitment process.
The “money talk” has always been a source of anxiety for candidates, but in 2024/2025, as Australia’s supply chain sector faces shifting market conditions, discussing compensation is more crucial and strategic than ever. With many employers holding a stronger position in the market due to increased competition for roles, understanding how to navigate salary negotiations is essential. Here's how you can confidently approach salary discussions in today’s job market.
1. Talk About It Early
While compensation may not be the first topic you bring up, it’s important to establish clarity early in the process. If the recruiter or hiring manager doesn’t ask about your expectations during the initial stages, raise the topic yourself during the first interview when invited to ask questions. For example, you might say, “Can you give me an understanding of the salary range for this role to ensure we're aligned on expectations?” This approach is professional and ensures you and the employer are on the same page early on.
2. Understand the Industry and Where You Are in It
Supply chain roles in Australia have experienced some fluctuations in compensation due to market shifts and evolving employer demands. While certain roles like procurement officers remain competitive, others, such as warehouse management positions, have seen more stabilised salary ranges.
To position yourself effectively:
Research salary ranges for your role and location using online salary benchmarking tools.
Identify whether your current salary sits at the lower, mid, or upper end of the market.
Factor in additional benefits that may be offered, such as car allowances, salary packaging, or superannuation increases, which can significantly enhance the total compensation package.
For example, if you know you are being paid under market rate, you can be confident in stating that you are looking for a 10% increase on your current base salary. However, if you know you are being paid at the top of the market, you can craft a message around salary to ensure you don't price yourself out of the market.
Additionally, if you’re transitioning between industries, evaluate how transferable your skills are. For instance, expertise in ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, which are widely used in supply chain operations, can position you for higher pay regardless of industry.
3. Use Data to Strengthen Your Negotiation
With online resources and industry reports, you can arm yourself with accurate data to back up your expectations. Supply chain roles in high-demand industries like e-commerce, healthcare, and renewable energy often include additional benefits like flexible working arrangements and performance bonuses.
Questions to explore during negotiation:
Is there scope for salary increases based on performance reviews?
Are there any learning and development benefits (e.g., funding for certifications like CIPS or Lean Six Sigma)?
Are bonuses tied to KPIs such as cost reduction or delivery optimisation?
Knowing the full compensation package will help you assess the total value of the role beyond base salary.
4. Be Prepared to Walk Away
The Australian supply chain sector remains competitive, and while certain strategic roles like supply chain planning and procurement offer room for negotiation, it's important to know your limits. Set clear boundaries for what you’re willing to accept before entering discussions.
Start by defining your non-negotiables:
Financial Stability: If the salary doesn’t meet your financial needs, consider whether other benefits like flexible work or professional development opportunities offset this.
Work-Life Balance: In 2024/2025, flexible work arrangements remain a top priority for many professionals in Australia.
Career Growth: Does the role offer pathways to leadership or skill development in areas like sustainability or AI-driven supply chain planning?
Being prepared to walk away isn’t a failure; it’s a strategic decision that ensures you’re prioritising what matters most to your career and life.
Key Trends in the 2024/2025 Supply Chain Job Market
Stable Salaries: While salary growth has slowed in some areas, procurement and planning roles remain more resilient.
Upskilling Opportunities: Employers are offering additional perks like funding for certifications and training in AI-based supply chain tools.
Flexibility as a Negotiation Point: Hybrid and remote work options remain key negotiation levers, with many supply chain employers offering flexible arrangements.
Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a critical part of the recruitment process. By starting the conversation early, understanding your position in the market, and being prepared to negotiate—or walk away—you can confidently advocate for a compensation package that reflects your skills, experience, and value. With Australia’s supply chain sector adapting to market changes in 2024/2025, knowing your worth and positioning yourself strategically will set you up for success.