Nine years out of work - got permanent job and have lots of questions!

[peppersquint]

Well after a very long career break (SAHM) with a few temp jobs I had an interview earlier this month ......and I've just been told I've got the job.

I'm so happy but also a bit daunted. It really has come at the best time possible and is a great early Christmas present.

Today I've received an email from HR asking when would I like to start (I can answer that one) and also to say "the starting salary is £xxx can you confirm you are happy with this"

Does this mean I "could" ask for more?

Although I've not worked properly for a while I do have a lot of experience (including extra qualifications noted as desirable on application) but I decided to apply for a job "below" what I was on when I left work.

I did not expect to start any higher than that stated on the advert.
However should I ask for more? I don't want to "rock the boat" - I'm so pleased to have got the job.

Don't know if it helps but the job is in the public sector and there is a £4,000 difference between starting salary and top of the scale.

Anyone in HR who can advise please?

They are simply asking you to confirm that the figure is as discussed in the interview. If you didn't discuss the wage you can ask what the pay scale range is for the position but I don't think you can ask for more money at this stage.

Thanks Sherbetpips - money wasn't discussed in the interview - but that's what I figured. To be honest teh question has thrown me a bit!

Congratulations on the job.

There isn't normally much room for negotiation on public sector pay. You will receive annual increments so your pay will go up over the next few years.

Thanks VegasisBest - That's what I think - I'll just expect the usual increments and thank my lucky stars :)

On another note - to anyone reading this and despairing that they will never get a job after so long out of the "market" - it can happen.

No one is more surprised than me about what's happened - and people will listen to why you haven't worked for so long/ or what else you have done that isn't work.

Peppersquint, congratulations on getting your job. Your success was music to my ears after having read earlier that being a SAHP or having taken time off work was doom in terms of trying to get back in to a job. I was very sad and thought, that was it for me. Your story has made me realise I should not give up just yet. Any advice on the steps taken to find your way back in would be appreciated. I have been a SAHP for 9 years now and looking to get back to work. Once again well done and do not look back.