Why it pays to check on salary for dream job

PAY was one of the most important factors for more than half of workers when they chose their current role. But when it comes to what we think each profession earns, we often overestimate.

Research from distance learning provider Oxford Open Learning reveals we think solicitors earn £60,000 when their average salary is £50,000.

And people put a journalist’s wage at well over the £23,500 average figure.

The only profession people got almost spot on was an NHS nurse at a perceived £25,000 when the actual is £24,936.

The wage packet that was most underestimated was that of a head teacher. Respondents guessed £50,000 – £26,192 less than the £76,192 the job earns.

Dr Nick Smith, director and founder of Oxford Open Learning Trust, said: “Money is the biggest motivator behind changing careers, followed by better working hours and personal interest.

“However, the results of this survey show we overestimate the salaries earned.

“Changing careers seems to pay off – more than a third of workers polled that had moved to a new job role said they had an increase in salary after the first year of their new career.” Top five overestimated salaries ● Journalist – perceived £30,000, actual £23,500 ● Plumber – perceived £30,000, actual £24,746 ● Solicitor – perceived £60,000, actual £50,000 ● Hairdresser perceived £18,000, actual £15,473 ● Retail assistant – perceived £15,000, actual £13,122