rjn engineering selection
Negotiations
Negotiating in a job interview can feel awkward. You don’t want to price yourself out of the running, but you also don’t want to undersell your value. Many engineers approach interviews thinking they should wait until an offer is on the table before discussing money, but the truth is that negotiation starts the moment you walk into the room — in how you position yourself, how you answer questions, and how you talk about what you bring to the business.
Here’s how to approach negotiation confidently and professionally.
1. Know your worth before you walk Before any interview, do your homework.
Research what the going rates are for your role, experience level, and location. Salaries can vary widely depending on sector, shift pattern, or skill set — for example, a maintenance engineer in food manufacturing may earn differently to one in heavy industry.
Check salary guides, job boards, and speak to specialist recruiters who work in your field. At RJN Engineering Selection, we often advise candidates on typical salary bands, overtime rates, and benefits for each type of role. Having this information helps you recognise a fair offer and negotiate with facts, not guesswork.
2. Time it right
Many candidates make the mistake of discussing salary too early. If you raise money before demonstrating your value, it can look like that’s your only motivation. Let the employer see your strengths first. Once they’re convinced you can solve their problems, your negotiating position becomes much stronger.
That said, if the interviewer brings up salary expectations, be ready with a clear, confident answer. Avoid vague phrases like “I’m open” or “negotiable.” Instead, give a realistic range based on your research, making sure the lower end is still a figure you’d be happy to accept.
Example:
“Based on my experience maintaining automated production lines and managing PPM schedules, I’d expect something in the range of £45,000–£48,000, depending on the package and progression available.”
This approach shows you’ve thought about your value and understand market rates.
3. Sell outcomes, not just skills
Negotiation isn’t just about salary — it’s about demonstrating why you’re worth it. Too many engineers list their responsibilities instead of highlighting the results they’ve delivered. When you explain how you’ve reduced downtime, improved reliability, or saved the business money, you strengthen your case for higher pay or better terms.
Try linking your achievements to measurable outcomes. For example:
“I led a reliability project that cut unplanned stoppages by 25%, which saved around £40,000 in lost production last year.”
When you back up your experience with figures, it’s hard for an employer to argue that you don’t add value.
4. Think beyond basic salary
Compensation isn’t just about the number on your payslip. There may be other benefits worth negotiating, such as overtime rates, shift allowances, company vehicle, training, or progression opportunities.
For example, a job offering £2,000 less on paper might include a funded electrical qualification or a more manageable shift pattern — both of which can be worth far more in the long run. Always look at the full package before deciding what to push for.
5. Be professional, not pushy
Negotiation should never feel like confrontation. You’re not demanding; you’re having a professional discussion about fair value. Keep your tone positive and respectful. Express interest in the role first, then talk about what would make it the right fit for you.
If you’re offered less than you expected, avoid an emotional reaction. Instead, respond with something like:
“I’m really interested in the position, and I think I could add strong value to your maintenance team. Based on my experience, I was hoping for something closer to £47,000 — is there any flexibility there?”
It’s a calm, professional way to test whether there’s room to move without creating tension.
6. Know when to stop
Once an agreement is reached, accept it graciously. Over-negotiating or changing your mind repeatedly can damage trust before you even start. If the offer meets your key goals — fair pay, solid working conditions, and a chance to progress — it’s usually better to accept and move forward.
Remember, a good employer values someone who’s confident but reasonable. Getting the relationship off on the right foot is worth more than squeezing out an extra £500.
7. Get advice before deciding
Finally, don’t go it alone. Speak to a recruiter who knows your market and can give you an honest opinion about whether an offer is competitive. At RJN Engineering Selection, we regularly help engineers weigh up job offers and negotiate fair terms — ensuring both candidate and employer walk away happy.
In summary: successful negotiation isn’t about being the loudest or the toughest; it’s about preparation, timing, and clear communication. Know your worth, present your value, and approach the conversation with professionalism. Done right, negotiation can set the tone for a positive, long-term working relationship — and ensure you’re rewarded fairly for the skills you bring.