To apply "up" to cover my increased living costs?

[Lackofsleepishurting]

I've been in the same job for a few years, and 9 in total in the broad sector. I need an increase of £6000k per annum to cover my living costs.

I was thinking of doing something I've never done before (but probably people with more confidence do all the time) and apply for jobs that are above my current pay grade and experience, but that I believe I can do due to years of general work experience and individual development. I have a natural aptitude to "planning" and "changing processes". Also to "public speaking" and "training".

Would you have any advice on how to do this? Is it reasonable to think this is a good plan?

Bear in mind that companies have to pay a recruitment company a fee and often give them very specific requirements for a candidate (otherwise what are they paying for) so if you might not match the requirements completely I would suggest applying directly.

It would never occur to me NOT to apply up - I've only ever left jobs for better ones that pay more. I thought that was common sense! I just apply for whatever jobs catch my eye and have a salary threshold I won't go below. If I don't get the job or even an interview it doesn't matter, I'd rather have tried and failed than not tried at all.

To clarify, @LatestUserName @LittleRedYoshi

I don't intend to have 50% hours in the new job, it's more than likely going to be a 0.6-0.8. I'd happily work 4 days a week in the right job. As my salary would be £30k currently (£15k take home), I'm interested in roles that are above that, but people with the title "administrator" do not have pay at that level.

I saw something advertised recently at £38 - £45k, I thought "it's a step above but my experience exactly matches" and I ticked off every single box on the desired and essential requirements.

I suppose the question you should be asking is, "Is there any reason not to apply?".

I can't think of any, but your circumstances might pop something up.

Apply for it. The salary is attached to the job title not the experience of the candidate so don't be put off if you tick a large amount of the boxes.

Good luck!

Do it! Salaries vary widely even within the same role. Apply with confidence.

I've recent done this. Been with current employer 10 years. I'm a single mum and it is super flexible. However, my mortgage fix ends soon and the salary just isn't enough to cover the increased cost of everything.

I applied for a new role in a completely new industry. Did a written assessment and interview. I have been offered the job and start after Christmas.

I'm v nervous as I've been in my current industry my entire working life and know it inside out. I think it will be overwhelming to start with, and hopefully worth it in the long run. I'm going to embrace the challenge and learn something new!

If you want to move to project management ( which can pay significantly more than you are on now) consider doing some qualifications too. A recognised PM qualification ( even a short course with a good provider) might just push your application higher up the pile than your current job title might.

Search on line for template cvs for the jobs that interest you.
make sure your application mirrors exactly the skills/ level of skills required.
loads of advice on line- total jobs, reed, monster etc.

If there is a job you tick all boxes for go for it. If they are happy to pay X amount it doesn't matter what you are on at the moment. I think your biggest issue will be wanting to work PT. Even 4 days might not be what an employer wants when advertising a FT job. Have you seen any PT positions for the salary you are looking for?

Most men will apply for a job knowing they can do HALF of the job spec.
Go for it. Be a man

Why would you be unreasonable for doing what most with any common sense do on a daily basis?

Do you honestly think people apply for jobs often that are sideways steps?

You'd be surprised how many do, I think. A lot of folk seem to have a confidence crisis when it comes to this sort of thing, which is absolutely crazy IMO - if ever there's a chance to big yourself up it's never going to be at a place who already know you, it's going to be with people who have no history with you.

The other thing is...when moving to a new job, you're trading years of time served at one place for three months' probation at the new one. The prospective employer has to make it an even trade by making an offer that's equitable and takes that into account.

I work in recruitment and so would suggest finding a good agency to work with, probably a smaller one which is more likely to work on a 1-2-1 basis. When I speak with candidates, I always write a detailed profile on current experience and highlight transferable skills or that they want to progress and take the step up. Sometimes it's hard to show it in a CV and can get missed. Cover letters are rarely read. That's what our fee covers, the fact that we take time to interview and get to know candidates and show employers people they could be missing from just their CV.

Also, sometimes we might have other jobs that aren't advertised or know more about possible changes in working conditions and able to negotiate salary increases for you. We also have direct contact so can get a CV seen quicker.