Do you know your worth – and is it changeable depending on the financial climate? According to a survey by Right Management over 42 per cent of people questioned had accepted a job which paid less than their previous role, compared to just 28 per cent of people who said the same last year.

It seems that the worry about not finding a position is fuelling this move – as people would rather earn something than nothing. After several years of job seekers being in plum position and effectively having their pick of roles prospective workers are now having to be more realistic about salary expectations. But just because you take on a lower paid role doesn’t mean you can’t build your pay up. Demonstrating to your employer the value you can add to the company and proving your worth will certainly see you in good stead when the market does pick up and it’s time for payrises to be handed out. Of course you have to earn it, but make sure if you take on a position that pays 15 per cent less than a previous job, you don’t offer 15 per cent less on your performance.