Can I negotiate my salary with an international school?

We get this question a lot. One of the main reasons teachers go abroad is financial- to be able to save. So how can you make sure you are getting the best deal?

When and how to talk money.

Edvectus will always send you the salary scale for each school, when we have it and are allowed to disclose it. Most reputable schools will have a salary scale based on the role, experience and possibly education. If you are unsure of the salary /package then it’s fine to ask about it at interview in general terms, but don’t make it your first question.  We don’t recommend that you try negotiating during the interview. It can be tricky to do without appearing greedy and might scupper your chances of getting an offer altogether. The only exception is if the client brings a figure up and asks if you will accept it. Then, have at it.

In most cases, we recommend you get the offer first, then decide if it’s acceptable. In most cases it will be. However, if you feel you should be higher on the scale, then write an email with the following parts:  1. Thank them for the offer and reiterate your interest in the school 2. Explain where you thought you should be paid more, and (this is important) -why. You need to justify, based on your experience/education why you think they got it wrong.  Just asking for money without justification appears entitled or arrogant. 3. Again thank them, put in a few nice words about the school and tell them you look forward to their response. Remember that if they meet your desired salary, they will expect you to accept it. Don’t enter into a negotiation unless this is the case. The rule with any negotiation is to think about what you want, what you will accept, and your walk away point-  before starting.

Some schools simply won’t negotiate. We find the more local the school’s HR and leadership team is, the more willing they will be to negotiate for the right teacher. But keep in mind that it can backfire if you are not highly desirable to them. If you are already punching above your weight and you don’t have exact training/experience they want, they may end up rescinding the offer, because you appear unjustifiably arrogant and more trouble than you are worth.

When in doubt, ask your Edvectus consultant and we can advise you, as we know our clients, their history, and your ‘attractiveness’ to them.