---
title: "Study: Job seekers gaining more leverage"
description: According to a recent survey from Robert Half International, 38 percent of surveyed executives said they were more open to negotiating salary with top candidates than they were one year ago.
---

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January 24, 2012

# Study: Job seekers gaining more leverage

Written by: [Innovative Employee Solutions](https://blog.innovativeemployeesolutions.com/ies-blog-nb-24/author/innovativeemployeesolutions)

According to a recent survey from Robert Half International, 38 percent of surveyed executives said they were more open to negotiating salary with top candidates than they were one year ago.

Specifically, 27 percent said they were "somewhat more willing," while 11 percent said they were "much more willing."

"Job seekers, especially those with skills in high demand, are gaining leverage in salary discussions today," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. "Still, there are many things that can go wrong when negotiating pay, and candidates should approach these discussions with a clear understanding of how far they should take the conversation."

A smaller percentage of respondents - just 5 percent - said they were less willing to negotiate salary.

According to the Daily Times, the best thing a candidate can do when asked about salary requirements on an application is to write "open."

The worst thing someone can do is to pinpoint a salary goal prior to being offered a position by [HR administration](http://innovativeemployeesolutions.com/wp/hr-administration/), as employers are more likely to choose the candidate who is willing to work for less. 

Tag(s): [Blog](https://blog.innovativeemployeesolutions.com/ies-blog-nb-24/tag/blog)

## [Innovative Employee Solutions](https://blog.innovativeemployeesolutions.com/ies-blog-nb-24/author/innovativeemployeesolutions)

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