How do I convince them I want a job that is half my current salary?

Careershifter question

By Oregano

What's your personal and career background?
Over the last 7 years I have worked my way up from an office coordinator to a project manager and am currently a program manager managing multiple events globally. I also have the qualifications below

  • MA Hons Economics
  • Diploma in events management and PR
  • Diploma in Program and Project Management
  • PRINCE 2
  • Currently doing a part-time Masters in Events Management.

What's your current work situation?
I decided I wanted to change career to an events manager about 2 years ago and as a result have pushed myself to the limit doing voluntary, work taking night classes. I also manage events, as 30% of my role but would prefer a 100% events management role. I am currently a program manager for an international bank. I have made a lot of sacrifices to ensure I have the right training and experience to make the career move and have been patient to find the right role in the right industry.

Where ideally would you like to be in twelve month's time?
As an event manager in an organisation that uses events to influence change for the better.

Where are you currently most stuck?
It has taken me 3 months to find the perfect role and I am about to submit my application. I have been asked for a personal statement and current salary. Although it's a good event management salary at 35,000 that i will be happy with, I currently earn 32,000 more than that! This is probably more than the hiring manager earns and I am so worried they may take this against me.... I have worked so hard and been so patient but I am now petrified my application will be rejected. How would they take to me earning close to the head of the department... I just dont want to be rejected on this issue after all the effort and sacrifices I have made. I would be grateful for any advice on how to overcome this obstacle.

ShiftDoctor answer

By Jessica McGrego...

I can see why you think that this could be a sticking point however I am assuming that the perfect role you are going for fits the criteria you want; "using events to influence change for the better". This is where you can focus your personal statement. Let your willingness to take a drop in salary speak for your commitment to wanting to make a difference in the world. You obviously feel that this drop is not a problem for you, so instead of seeing it as a problem for them, present it in a light that shows the level of passion you have for the work.

Tell them about the time and commitment it has taken you to prepare for this role, that you have done it with eyes wide open regarding the consequences of this career move. Demonstrate that you see it as a positive step, fulfilling your passion of working in a field that has a greater meaning to you than where you have worked before. Downshifting is not a bad thing, many have been doing it for years; putting more meaning in their lives, working in line with their values with companies that fit their personal criteria. All of this can be seen as a plus. If the company you are applying to is as good as you think it is, why would they not consider you for a position simply because you've earnt more in the past?

If Richard Branson said that he wanted to bring his experience and expertise do you think they'd turn him down? No, they'd grab him with open arms. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and what value you can give to the company and they'd be fools to let a thing like your current salary be the sticking point.

It is all about how you present it and about you feeling happy with the whole package. If you are happy with the salary offered and it isn't a problem for you, then it shouldn't be a problem for them. They are going to be wanting the best person for the job - focus on demonstrating that.

Good luck.

Jessica offers a free introductory session to discuss how she can help you identify and make the move you want; if you would like to arrange a time for her to call you please email her at jessica@jessicamcgregorjohnson.com or call 0203 239 6155. For more information visit http://www.jessicamcgregorjohnson.com/

She works internationally as a Life Coach enabling people to follow their dream and gain fulfilment in every area of life. Using not only the traditional coaching tools of conversation, exploration and creating accountability she also adds in powerful processes of Christopher Howard Results Technologies® and Neurological Re-patterningTM that enables change to take place both internally and externally. She has worked with many career shifters and particularly enjoys using her own life experience, including her time in the corporate world, to support those making whatever move they choose.


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By louisepresslygr...

Hi Oregano Just wondering how you got on?? I'm in a very similar position at the moment..

By Judita

Hi Oregano, Same here - I am in an exactly same position and would love to hear how you're gettingon...

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