Most candidates accept the first reasonable offer they receive — usually within days. Almost always, negotiating that offer or interviewing further produces a better outcome. The 'I'll just take this one' impulse usually costs significantly.
Why the first offer underdelivers
Companies budget for negotiation. The first offer often sits 10-20% below the upper end of their range. Without negotiating, you get the budget-saving outcome. Interviewing at multiple companies provides leverage. Competing offers usually move starting compensation by 10-30%.
What to do instead
Don't accept on the spot regardless of urgency pressure. 'Thank you, I'd like a week to discuss with my family.' This is standard and expected. Negotiate before accepting (base, sign-on, vacation, title). Continue conversations with other companies if any are active. The leverage matters.
Most women under-negotiate offers. £5k initial difference compounds to £100k+ over a career. The negotiation conversation is hours; the impact is decades.