UK Recruitment Glossary
Promotion
In recruiter context
The hard truth from 12 years recruiting: internal promotions in the UK typically come with 8-15% pay rises. External moves at the same level shift average 20-30%. That's the structural problem with staying loyal — you're rewarded slower than the market moves. Lateral promotions (broader scope, no pay change) are common and worth taking only if they unlock the next level. If you've been promised a promotion that hasn't materialised after two review cycles, start interviewing externally. The threat of you leaving often unlocks the title faster than the actual hard work did.
Related terms
Transferable Skills
Skills built in one context (industry, role) that apply to another — the engine of any career change…
Equity / Share Options
An ownership stake in your employer, granted as options or shares that vest over time.
Overtime
Hours worked beyond your contracted hours, sometimes paid at an enhanced rate, sometimes expected un…
Job Offer
A formal proposal of employment from an employer, usually issued verbally first then confirmed in wr…