Are you a salary nomad? You might be without even realising it, as the term itself is fairly new, so let’s break down what it actually means. 

Nothing to do with being a digital nomad or travelling the globe, a salary nomad is someone who goes where the money takes them. That means making career choices based primarily on money, whether that’s quitting a job to pursue one that pays more or switching industries entirely based on what’s the most lucrative (anyone else looking into tech?). 

On the face of it, this seems like a pretty great approach. More money is better, right? But the truth is that happiness at work and beyond is down to more factors than just earning loads. After all, studies suggest that while the jump from a low income to a higher one makes you happier, there’s a cap – after a certain point, more money doesn’t do much to your life satisfaction. 

Plus, while feeling valued at work is vital, a better-paid job might not have the workplace culture that brings you contentment. It certainly could, and it’s not to say that all higher-paid jobs are bad, but perhaps when considering a new role we need to look at more than just the numbers. 

“It’s a tricky one,” Terry Payne, global managing director of recruitment agency Aspire, tells Stylist. “On the one hand, I’d argue there are so many aspects to a job in addition to how much it pays. On the other – and for some people – earning more money is needs must. We’re smack bang in the middle of a cost of living crisis, so can you really blame people for making career decisions with money front of mind? 

“Let’s also not make the mistake of assuming these ‘salary nomads’ are all high-flyers, either. For lots of candidates, following the money isn’t something they do out of choice – it’s a necessity.”

Beyond the obvious appeal of ‘more money’, by becoming a salary nomad you might also “feel a sense of freedom and autonomy in managing your own career,” says Téa Angelos, founder of Smart Women Society and author of Smart Moves: Simple Ways To Take Control Of Your Life. Think about it like this: if you’re making decisions based primarily on money and are willing to move around to get the best deal, you won’t be so strongly tied to one role or workplace. It’s easier not to feel so emotionally invested in work as a salary nomad because it’s a change in perspective: you’re no longer expecting a job to provide happiness or self-worth; instead, you are prioritising money.

So what are the downsides? “Making career decisions based on money alone can be a risky strategy,” says Payne. “If you’re focused solely on earning potential, there’s a chance you’ll overlook key reasons not to take a job – reasons which might conflict with your values, for instance. My point is that you might end up in a strong financial position but pretty unhappy in your role, with your colleagues or the business you work in.”

Angelos adds: “It’s important to note that the job market, industries and economic conditions can change over time, and making career decisions solely based on pay may not always be sustainable in the long run.”

There’s also the risk that salary nomading may lead to lots of jumping from one job to a better-paid one in quick succession, which some potential employers might not like. “It depends on the job and the employer,” notes Payne. “Regularly job hopping doesn’t always look the best on your CV – and could raise questions from an employer about loyalty – but if that employer has deep enough pockets and understands what motivates you, then they’re in a good position to get the best out of you.”

It’s wise to assess the industry you’re in for how they’ll view evidence of being a salary nomad. “Perceptions of salary nomads can vary depending on the industry, company culture and specific job requirements,” Angelos explains. “Some companies may view salary nomads as ambitious and adaptable, while others may have concerns about their stability and commitment.” If you’re pursuing a role at a company where they crow proudly about having employees for 10 years, it might not be wise to make speedy moves based on money. In the fast-moving tech and startup industries, however, it’s a different story. 

Doing only brief stints at companies can also prevent you from having a real depth of knowledge, which, again, some hirers won’t like. “Hiring managers may prefer candidates with deep expertise and experience in a particular industry or company, and being seen as a salary nomad may not align with that preference.”

You probably shouldn’t mention your salary nomad ways in interviews either, just in case this is off-putting to employers. “Prioritising pay above all else may raise questions about your motivations for a particular job or company,” says Angelos. “Hiring managers may be concerned that you are solely driven by money and may not be genuinely interested in the company’s values, culture, or mission.”

In short: being a salary nomad isn’t automatically good or bad. Whether it’s a wise idea really depends on so many variables – from the industry you’re in to what really matters to you when it comes to work. Having a salary nomad mindset, but considering other factors about jobs you’re pondering is, is probably a smart move. 

“We should be careful not to judge people taking this approach to their career,” Payne tells us. “But there’s so much more to a job than money alone. Whether it’s flexible working, opportunities to progress and the culture of a business, salary isn’t the be-all and end-all for lots of people when they know they can cover their bills. There are plenty of other benefits to consider, too – from unlimited holiday to an attractive pension scheme, for instance.”

“Even though salary is an important consideration in any career decision, focusing solely on pay may not always necessarily lead to long-term job satisfaction or fulfilment,” Angelos says. “Everyone’s career journey is unique, and what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another. It’s important to find a career path that is personally fulfilling and aligns with your individual needs and aspirations.

“Carefully evaluate your own priorities and make decisions that align with your overall career goals and well-being.”

Plus, if you find a job that ticks all the other boxes but doesn’t offer the best salary, it’s always worth trying to negotiate, whether that’s within your current role or when interviewing for a new one. Angelos and Payne share their tips for doing this ahead.

Know that you’re in a good position right now

“First and foremost, there are more than a million job vacancies in the UK. This is a sign that employers are struggling to recruit the talent they need,” Payne explains. “It also means that there are likely to be plenty of opportunities, should you choose to leave your existing role. It means workers are in a strong position to negotiate a higher salary with their existing employer or new ones.”

Be confident

Angelos says: “Confidence and assertiveness are key in salary negotiations. Clearly express your desire for a higher salary, and be prepared to back it up with reasons and evidence. Avoid being apologetic or defensive, and maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the negotiation. Remember, you are advocating for your worth and expertise.”

Do your research

“Do your homework, putting together a valid case,” Payne advises. “Try researching how much your role is paid elsewhere – a recruiter will be well-placed to provide you with this. If you’re being paid lower than the average, you’re in a strong position to put forward your case.”

Focus on what you’re bringing to the table

If you’re pushing for more pay at your current job, Payne recommends that you “make a list of your achievements, the value and the difference you’ve made in the business – reference points if you’re asked why you deserve a pay rise.”

The same logic goes for a new role. Highlight the wealth of experience and knowledge you’ll bring to the job to explain why you’re worth more. 

Choose the right time

“Choose the right timing for your salary negotiation,” Angelos advises. “For current job negotiations, consider timing it during performance reviews or when you have achieved significant milestones or accomplishments. 

“When interviewing for a new job, wait until you have received a formal job offer before discussing salary. Avoid bringing up salary too early in the interview process, as it may send the wrong impression.”

Be open to negotiation

“Salary negotiations are often a give-and-take process,” Angelos says. “Be prepared to receive a counteroffer from your employer or potential employer, and be open to further negotiation. Consider other forms of compensation such as bonuses, equity or additional benefits if a higher base salary is not feasible. The goal is to find a mutually beneficial agreement that meets your financial needs and aligns with the company’s budget.

Images: Getty