I still remember that evening—February 18, 2023. After a long and exhausting day, I decided to treat myself to a nice dinner at a restaurant in Dubai. I needed a break, a moment to unwind, and a good meal to refresh my mind after weeks of job searching.
As I sat at my table, enjoying the atmosphere of the bustling city, I noticed a group of girls sitting nearby. They seemed confident, engaged in conversation, and from the way they spoke, I could tell they had experience working in Dubai. Eventually, we started talking, and the conversation naturally shifted toward jobs and salaries.
One of the girls, who had been working in the city for a few years, gave me some advice that truly changed my perspective. She said, “Never accept a job with a minimum salary. Companies usually don’t offer high pay at first, but during the interview, always ask for a salary between 4,000 to 5,000 AED.”
Another girl nodded in agreement and added, “Many people, especially newcomers, accept low salaries because they are desperate for a job. But employers are often willing to pay more if you confidently negotiate and know your worth. The starting salary should be no less than 4,000 to 5,000 AED, and you should always aim higher if you have the skills and experience.”
Their words struck me. Up until that moment, I had been focused on just finding any job. I hadn’t given much thought to negotiating my salary or setting an expectation for what I deserved. Like many others, I assumed that companies would only offer what they thought was fair, and I would have to accept it.
But that conversation made me realize something important—your salary isn’t just about what the company offers; it’s also about what you ask for. If you don’t set your own value, no one else will. Employers might start with a lower offer, but they often have a higher budget for the right candidate. The key is to be confident and negotiate wisely.
From that day forward, I approached my job search differently. I no longer looked at jobs that offered salaries below 4,000 AED. I understood that accepting a low salary sets a precedent, and once you start low, it’s harder to climb up.
As I left the restaurant that night, I felt like I had gained something far more valuable than just a meal. I had gained insight, confidence, and a new approach to my job search.
That dinner was a reminder that in life—and especially in the job market—you don’t just take what’s given; you ask for what you deserve.
