UK's 'Say What You Pay' Law: What It Means for EU Startups

Jan de Vries · 2026-11-06

Ever applied for a job and had no clue what the salary was? You're not alone. The UK is stepping up with a new law that forces employers to put salaries in job adverts. It's called the 'say what you pay' law, and it's aimed at making the hiring process fairer and more transparent. But what does this mean for European startups trying to attract talent? Let's break it down. ### What's the 'Say What You Pay' Law? The UK government is planning to make companies publish salary ranges in job ads. The goal? To help jobseekers know what to expect and to tackle pay discrimination. It's a big move, especially for women and minority groups who often face pay gaps. The law is expected to come into effect in the next couple of years, and it's already sparking conversations across Europe. ### Why Transparency Matters Pay transparency isn't just a nice-to-have. It builds trust. When companies are upfront about salaries, candidates feel respected. It also saves time—no more back-and-forth about expectations. And let's be honest, it reduces the chance of bias. If you know the salary range upfront, you're less likely to be lowballed based on your negotiation skills or background. ### How Does This Affect EU Startups? If you're running a startup in Europe and hiring in the UK, this law will apply to you. But even if you're not hiring in the UK, it's a signal of where things are heading. The EU is also considering similar measures. For startups, this means being more transparent in job postings. It might feel scary—what if competitors poach your employees by offering more? But transparency can also be a selling point. It shows you have nothing to hide. ### The Bigger Picture The UK's move is part of a global trend. Countries like the US and Canada are also pushing for pay transparency. For European startups, it's a chance to lead by example. By adopting transparent practices early, you can attract top talent and build a reputation as a fair employer. Plus, it simplifies the hiring process—everyone knows where they stand. ### What Should Startups Do Now? - **Review your job ads:** Start including salary ranges. Even if it's not required yet, it's good practice. - **Train your hiring managers:** Make sure they're comfortable discussing pay openly. - **Audit your pay scales:** Check for any unconscious bias in your current salaries. > "Pay transparency is not just about compliance; it's about building a culture of trust and fairness." – Jan de Vries, E-commerce Consultant ### The Bottom Line The 'say what you pay' law is more than just a UK thing—it's a shift in how we think about hiring. For EU startups, it's an opportunity to stand out. By being open about salaries, you show candidates you value them. And in a competitive talent market, that can make all the difference. So, next time you post a job ad, put the salary front and center. Your future employees will thank you.