To ask for a higher starting rate?

[NotLikeTheOthers]

Got offered a job after first choice person couldn’t take it (for personal reasons). There was a salary range for the job and I was offered it at the lowest. The job doesn’t need specific skills/qualifications, let’s say it’s a strong/senior administrators role, which I can more than demonstrate. I do want the job, but feel like I should ask for above the lowest rate. Should I? How can I do it without sounding like an arse?

‘I’m wondering if we could explore’ is too soft, - correct !

"and I'm confident that you'll be very happy with how much I can contribute to the team and department." This is just waffle. OP has already been offered the job - the conversation is now about the salary.

Say, "I was expecting a salary closer to the top end of the range" (don't say £X,000) and then shut up. Let them fill the silence. She who blinks first loses.

Well, I accepted the job and asked for better money…. And got it!! Wouldn’t have asked without the bolstering from these replies, so a huge thank you xx

@NotLikeTheOthers well done! So glad for you