New job, higher salary! …Or?

In front of you lies the contract that could open doors to an exciting new career path. It offers valuable experience and room to grow. All it takes is your signature. But there’s one catch – the salary is lower than what you earn today. Would you accept a pay cut for a new role?

Salary: the deal breaker  

As recruiters, we know that salary plays a central role in the job search. It almost always comes up early in conversations with candidates—sometimes even before the job description itself. And that’s no surprise. From an early age, we’re taught that education is the key to a good job and a good salary.

What do experienced candidates say?

We’ve also noticed a clear trend among experienced candidates: the number on the payslip is no longer the only deciding factor when accepting a role. Salary still matters, of course, but other aspects can weigh just as heavily. Work environment, responsibilities, and opportunities for personal growth often become equally important in the decision-making process.

The pursuit of a better role—a more challenging one, one that offers greater freedom—is a driving force we can all relate to. The real question is: what do you prioritise, and what matters most to you right now?

A job market in transition

Dramatic changes have shaped the labour market over the past decades. Career paths were once static, but today working life is defined by flexibility and opportunity. Many employers struggle to find the right skills, which in turn opens doors to career shifts and new directions. Internal training, further education, and career transitions later in life are becoming increasingly common.

At the same time, new regulations are on the horizon that will further affect both employers and managers. One example is the Pay Transparency Directive, coming into effect in 2026, which will bring significant changes to how salary matters are handled.

Switching industries requires both courage and often an investment in education. But in the long run, it can pay off – financially as well as for your overall well-being. The question is: what are you willing to give up in the short term to achieve your long-term goals?

8 factors beyond salary to include in the equation

When considering a career move, remember that salary is only one part of the equation. Here are 8 other factors to weigh before making the right decision:

Benefits: What benefits are offered beyond salary?

Security: Do you feel confident about the stability of your new workplace?

Responsibilities: Will you enjoy and feel engaged in your new tasks?

Working hours & flexibility: Do the hours suit your lifestyle? Is hybrid work an option? Will the role require frequent travel? Can you maintain a healthy work–life balance?

Level of responsibility: Are you prepared to take on more—or less—responsibility?

Leadership & colleagues: What is the leadership style like, and how do you feel about the team?

Development opportunities: Are there strong opportunities for personal and professional growth? What does the long-term career path within the company look like?

Culture & values: Do the company’s culture and values align with your own?

If you’re considering a career change, visit saco.se and trs.se for more information.

Ready for a new challenge? Explore our open positions and apply today. We’re always keen to connect with new candidates.