Research from various recruitment agencies have shown that one of the main reasons for applicant rejections is because of inflated expected salaries. This becomes most salient amongst our fresh university graduates. Especially candidates graduating from overseas universities such as in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand.

 

Firstly, expected salaries are about 10-15% higher than what most employers are willing to offer. Hence, we observe a stalemate between employers and their potential employees. Unless you are one the top 15% of students graduating not just with distinctions but with excellent record of Extra Ciruculum Activities, it would be difficult to justify an expected salary of $3,500 without any working experience. Having such expectations would have a negative impact on your interviewer should you not be able to justify your expectations with a good reason. We will observe a stalemate between employers and employees unless either party decides to give-in.