Have I ballsed up this job offer?

[Humhallelujah]

I had an interview last Monday, and a second interview on Friday. I was then offered the role via email Friday afternoon.

The job was advertised at 35-40k, however I’m currently on 50k, which they knew. I knew it would be a reduction in pay, but there are a lot of other benefits and it’s a job I’m excited about - it’s actually a step up in title and responsibility.

They emailed Friday afternoon to basically say they want to offer me the role, they are excited for me to join the team and I’d be sent my contract on Monday. At no point was there any mention of salary, so I responded to say thank you - really excited but I actually would be looking for something in the £45k region as it aligns with the job role and my experience - I’m keen to make it work, and I’d be happy to discuss further.

They haven’t replied yet.. do you think it was really crass? I’ve been second guessing myself ever since. I’ve never pushed on salary but I’m pretty sure that role was worth more. Should I have waited til Monday? Agh.

What time was this and who did you email(HR, your potential new manager etc). It could be that they need to speak to someone more senior to discuss as it’s outside their original budget.
Most people expect negotiation, so I wouldn’t panic yet. It sounds like you’ve worded your request well too.

It sounds like they are probably just discussing things internally. Be patient.

Thank you! It’s a small business, two joint directors and I met with one of them in person Friday which is who I emailed so yes I imagine they would need to discuss it. I’ve always just said thank you very much and never actually negotiated a salary so I just feel a little uneasy about it all!

Hmm, yes I think it was quite crass tbh. I probably would’ve asked them if they’d be able to get an offer letter outlining salary over before the contract. Then you could’ve negotiated. But, I wouldn’t panic it was a Friday afternoon

You were fine. I think emailing to say your contract is on its way rather than ringing to offer you the job is a bit... as if they're trying to skip the bit where you negotiate and accept. Although of course it might not be up for negotiation but no harm in asking.

I think you’re fine. I was in quite a similar situation. I was on £50k and there was no salary in their ad. Before applying I said I would be looking for £40k+ (as their job description was more junior than my current role). During first interview they confirmed £40k was ok. In second interview I told them I had undersold myself as all other roles I was looking at were around £45k. They made no real comment. They then sent an email similar to the one you got saying I had got the job but not mentioning at what salary. I asked them to clarify, they didn’t respond and then sent through a contract at £45k. I accepted and found out later that they were being a bit clueless as they had no similar role in the company to compare the salary to, so were just listening to what the candidates were asking for. I’ve worked there for years now with no issues.

I really think it’s on the employer to state what the salary offer is in their initial confirmation.