Should I negotiate salary at offer stage for a lower-paid role?

[ChillWith]

I'm interviewing for a job that feels like a really good fit. It's private sector and open about pay internally, which is refreshing as it's often so smoke and mirrors. The role is interesting and offers a really good challenge to what I was doing more recently. Only thing is the pay is the same as my previous job and
this is a much bigger business. I also have many more years' experience compared to potential colleagues in similar roles. Recruiters I've spoken to about prospective jobs are saying £20k more compared to most recent salary as minimum for my next job but the opportunities just don't exist right now. I am v conscious of my age, too. I've been underpaid for the last ten years and don't want the same to happen again, but this is a cracking opportunity should I be successful. If successful, should I try to negotiate more money at offer stage despite them advertising an upper ceiling? What would you do?

Consider the total pay package - any benefits, bonuses/commission, pensions contributions?
What does the career progression look like? It sounds like you’d be energised to do the role.

You absolutely should be clear about your salary expectations and now is the time to discuss. Have you facts lined up - eg I see the roles ceiling is x, however I really anticipate x+y%. My reason for this is I have x more years experience in an equiv role and as you can see from my career history I have been loyal and committed to abc. Can you meet me at this level?’
if they say yes - happy days
if they say no - what is the expected career and salary progression etc keeps the conversation going

You should do your homework (not just speak to recruiter) about going rate for equiv positions asap.

Thanks {mention:AbzMoz}@AbzMoz that's really helpful

Could you also negotiate a four day week for the same pay if that’s their final budget but they really want you

Come back and ask the question when you have an offer in your hands.