13/10/2026
One thing we’ve learnt over the years is that candidates sometimes negotiate simply because they feel they should. And that’s usually where negotiations can go wrong.
Instead, ask yourself one simple question: “Will this genuinely make me happier or more successful in this role?”
For example, negotiating for an extra car park might make sense if you’re working in Brisbane’s C*D and parking costs you thousands of dollars each year. Negotiating study support makes sense if you’re completing further qualifications that will benefit both you and your employer. Asking to start half an hour earlier because it lets you avoid peak-hour traffic and spend more time with your family can also make a meaningful difference.
On the other hand, negotiating simply because you think you should can distract from the bigger picture. We’ve seen plenty of candidates focus heavily on small benefits while overlooking opportunities that would have accelerated their careers far more, such as: better mentoring, exposure to larger projects, stronger leadership or a clearer pathway into project management.
Sometimes the most valuable benefit isn’t something that’s written into your contract. It’s the opportunity the role creates.
