In this episode of CREGG Insights, we sit down with Tomislav Dzanak, Contingent Team Lead at CREGG, to explore one of the most common and often misunderstood career topics: salary expectation versus market reality.

With shifting market conditions, rising living costs and increased candidate mobility, aligning salary expectations with true market value has never been more important. Tom shares frontline insight from working with both employers and candidates across Ireland, highlighting where expectations often diverge from reality and how to close that gap.

Tom highlights the importance of communication, culture and career progression planning explaining why money alone rarely solves retention challenges long term.

For professionals, this episode offers a grounded perspective on how to position yourself realistically, negotiate strategically and build long-term career value.

For employers, it provides clear insight into how culture, transparency and development pathways influence retention far more than reactive pay increases.

If you are reviewing your salary expectations, considering a career move, or benchmarking your hiring strategy, this episode delivers practical, real-world guidance from the recruitment front line.

Connect with Tomislav Dzanak via LinkedIn or through CREGG.ie.

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In this episode, we discuss: