How to Negotiate Salary for International Jobs: Expert Strategies

UN salaries are based on fixed scales and are generally non-negotiable. However, you may negotiate the step within your grade based on experience, the duty station, and the type of appointment (fixed-term vs. temporary).

Yes, consider whether the company uses location-based or location-independent pay. For location-based companies, research the cost of living in the reference city. For location-independent companies, benchmark against the global market rate.

The best time is after receiving a written offer but before accepting. If asked about salary expectations early in the process, provide a range based on market research rather than a specific number.

Beyond base salary, an international package may include hardship allowances, education grants, relocation packages, housing subsidies, home leave travel, and post adjustment for UN positions. Calculate the total value of all benefits, because a lower base salary with strong benefits can be worth more than a higher salary with few perks.

You can negotiate other parts of the offer, such as a signing bonus, relocation package, professional development budget, flexible working arrangements, annual leave, or the timeline for your performance review. Get the final offer in writing and confirm tax treatment, currency of payment, and how often salary is reviewed.

Negotiation styles differ by culture. In the US and Australia, assertive negotiation is expected, while in Japan and many Asian countries aggressive negotiation can seem disrespectful. Salary ranges are often published in Northern European countries, and personal relationships play a larger role in Middle Eastern countries.