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
Upskilling
Building new skills within your existing role or career path — usually to take on more responsibilit…
Variable Pay
Compensation tied to performance — bonuses, commission, profit share, equity vesting — that varies b…
Talent Acquisition
The strategic, in-house version of recruitment — focused on long-term hiring, employer brand, and pr…
Death-in-Service Benefit
A lump-sum payment to a UK employee's beneficiaries (typically 2-4x annual salary) if they die while…