Do you know your worth in the job market? Many job seekers undervalue themselves – or overvalue and scare employers away. By doing thorough salary research, you can set realistic goals and enter negotiations with confidence.
This guide teaches you how to research salary levels in your industry and position, so you can set a salary goal that matches your experience and market realities.
Why salary research is important
Good salary research gives you several advantages:
- Realistic expectations: You know what to expect based on data, not guesses.
- Stronger negotiating position: You can argue with facts, not feelings.
- Avoid being underpaid: You know when an offer is below market.
- Avoid scaring off employers: You don't ask for something unrealistic.
- Better career planning: You can set long-term salary and career goals.
Remember: Salary is only one part of compensation. Pension, vacation, flexibility, and other benefits also have value.
Sources of salary data
Trade unions and unemployment funds
Most trade unions in Denmark publish salary statistics for their members. These are often the most reliable sources of Danish salary data because they're based on actual salaries.
- Contact your trade union for industry-specific data
- Many have online salary calculators
- Data is typically updated annually
Online salary portals
Several websites collect salary data:
- Glassdoor: User-reported salaries, good for international companies
- LinkedIn Salary: Requires login, but has good Danish data
- Jobindex Salary Statistics: Based on Danish job postings
Job postings
Some job postings indicate salary ranges. Although not all do, you can collect data from multiple postings to form a picture.
Your network
Colleagues and contacts in the industry can provide valuable insight. Be discreet when asking – many people prefer to talk in ranges rather than exact figures.
Factors that affect salary
When researching, remember that salary levels vary based on:
Experience
- Recent graduate vs. experienced
- Years in the industry
- Specific skills or certifications
Geography
- Copenhagen typically pays more than the rest of the country
- Large cities vs. smaller towns
- Remote positions may have different salary structures
Company type
- Large companies often pay more than small ones
- Public vs. private sector
- Startup vs. established company
Industry
- Different industries have different salary levels
- Technology and finance typically pay higher
- Non-profit and culture often pay lower
How to do your research
Step 1: Define your position
Be specific about the role you're looking for. "Marketing" is too broad – "Digital Marketing Manager with 5 years experience" is better.
Step 2: Collect data from multiple sources
Use at least 3 different sources to get a reliable picture. One source can be skewed.
Step 3: Identify the range
Find the typical salary range for your position. Note:
- Lowest level (entry-level or below market)
- Median salary (what most people earn)
- Highest level (experienced or above market)
Step 4: Position yourself
Assess where you fit based on your experience, skills, and the jobs you're seeking.
Step 5: Set your range
Define a realistic range you're satisfied with. Have both a minimum (you won't go below this) and an ideal figure.
What do you do with your research?
In the application process
If you're asked about salary expectations early in the process:
- Give a range based on your research
- Add that you're flexible and happy to discuss the total offer
- Avoid mentioning a specific figure too early
In the negotiation
When an offer is on the table:
- Compare with your research
- Be ready to justify your counter-offer with data
- Remember to negotiate on the whole package, not just base salary
Typical mistakes to avoid
- Relying on one source: Different sources give different pictures. Use several.
- Ignoring location: A salary that's good in Aalborg may be low in Copenhagen.
- Forgetting total value: Pension, bonus, vacation, and benefits have real economic value.
- Comparing across levels: A senior position pays more than a junior position. Compare apples with apples.
- Using outdated data: Salary levels change. Use data from the last 1-2 years.
Practical tips
- Document your research: Create a spreadsheet with sources, figures, and dates.
- Ask in interviews: You're allowed to ask about salary range early to ensure you're in the same ballpark.
- Talk to your trade union: They can often give personal advice based on your profile.
- Update regularly: The market changes. Research again if it's been a while.
Try it yourself
Do your own salary research now:
- Define the specific position you're looking for
- Find salary data from at least 3 sources
- Identify the typical range (low, median, high)
- Assess where you fit
- Write down your minimum and ideal figure
Frequently asked questions
What do I say if they ask about my current salary?
You are not obligated to disclose your current salary. You can say: "I prefer to focus on what the market value is for this position and my experience level." Then you can mention your researched range.
How do I handle it if the offer is below market?
Calmly explain that based on your research, the offer is below market level for positions with similar responsibility and experience. Feel free to share your sources. Ask if there is flexibility, or if other parts of the package can be improved.
Is it OK to negotiate salary as a recent graduate?
Yes, but be realistic. As a recent graduate, you have less negotiating power, but you can still discuss salary. Focus on what you bring, and be prepared to accept that your first job is often more about experience than salary.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now completed the goal setting module. You know how to set goals for your job search – from overarching career goals to concrete salary expectations. Use this knowledge to apply for jobs with focus and confidence.