Join Singapore’s career community
Share career tips and exchange stories with almost 2 million jobseekers – just like youw
wwwilly wwwonka · 20 Jan 2026
Is it true that if we accept a lower-than-market pay as 1st salary, it's gonna be hard to ask for a higher one later when we move to another company? Will we be gaslighted for asking more, since we started low? I'm a fresh grad with an offer on my hand atm. Bcz my GPA is not that powerful, this offer came after almost 10 months of looking for jobs so I'm really grateful. But salary is only SGD 2.7k since it's a small company. I believe my concern above is valid. Can I negotiate or just say yes?
A
Anon723764 · 20 Jan 2026
This is my experience. My first job was below market and I accepted it after a long job search. I was worried that starting low would follow me forever. But when I applied elsewhere later, most recruiters focused on my experience and skills, not my first salary. So don't worry about starting low i think.
W
Wang · 5 Mar 2026
Start
My current pay lower than my company junior staff, who just under me before. I underpaid half year, the management just keep quiet, so I decided to leave this company immediately.
A
Anon020871 · 22 Jan 2026
AI Chatbot Intern
Yes. My husband is struggling with a salary below $4k. He has so much experience and masters degree. Singapore job market is poop
A
Anon189762 · 20 Jan 2026
Honestly? It's a myth that you're locked in forever. I started way below market and doubled my salary in 3 years by switching companies. Here's the thing, you don't even have to tell future employers what you're earning now (in many places it's illegal for them to ask!). Next time, just focus on the market rate..
T
Timothy · 11 Apr 2026
Food Delivery Rider
I thought fresh grads benchmark normally is 3k
A
Anon820933 · 27 Jan 2026
If you're planning to negotiate, then maybe give it a try. Never try, never know. But if you're worried your salary is just going to be stagnant, then i think better not, as time goes, your pay will also increase.
A
Anon497269 · 20 Jan 2026
Rmb, ur first salary is just a starting line, not a finish line. When u move companies, u control the narrative, so focus on what u're worth NOW based on ur skills and experience.
Want the full community experience? Get it on the app
Features are constantly being added from the ‘Career’ section of the Jobstreet app to this website. So, if you want an even better experience check out our app now.
Explore groups