Ask the Expert - Choosing between job offers

If you are lucky enough to receive two offers then there is no harm in making the company you are most interested in aware of the details of the other opportunity. However, you do need to tread carefully and ethically to ensure your reputation isn't damaged in the process.

Simply reiterate that you are very interested in your preferred position, and state the reasons for your interest, but add your concerns about the salary. Back it up with some market data, as well as the evidence from your second offer. After all, if the market really is paying X and you have only been offered Y, that will help to consolidate your position objectively.

Salary surveys are a great way to gain this data and a good source from which to quote. But remember that while moving jobs remains one of the best ways to receive a salary boost, there isn't usually a blank chequebook. The average salary increase offered to insurance professionals on £36 000 to £75 000 is 13%, and much more than this - unless it is a leap up the career ladder - would be unusual.

Ask whether there is any flexibility in the money offered, but don't phrase it as a demand. The more objective and matter-of-fact you remain, the less awkward the conversation will feel. This is often where working through a recruitment consultant enables you to enjoy more of a smokescreen during the negotiation process, as it can sometimes feel uncomfortable to get into salary discussions directly.

Once you (hopefully) receive an increased offer, I wouldn't advise running back and forth between the two like an auctioneer. You should know at the outset what you would be prepared to accept, and avoid falling into the trap of trying to increase your salary beyond that. Keep in mind you will probably be working in one of these organisations at the end of the process, so it's best to start off with an uncomplicated history.

Belinda Walmsley is a director with Randstad Financial & Professional

This article was published in the 6 March edition of Post magazine