I got £22k after graduating ( well started a week after my final exam!) into a full time role.
After 6 months (November), I asked my boss that I would like to be paid the going rate for a graduate job at the company (c£25k). I clearly demonstrated my skills and what I had achieved in the short time span. I was turned down so.....
I then looked around and a month later got accepted for a new job. My manager wasn't expecting me to leave so quickly, but if they don't wish to pay the going rate, I'm off! I was held for the full 3 months notice period which was rather painfull! Thus I left the company with 10 months working for them.
My new job was on £28k and I was there for around 15 months. At the end of the 15 months I was approached on linkedin for a new job and it was my ideal dream job. I took them up on their offer and we negotiated £38k. I've been here for a few months and enjoy the job alot.
I've had many different options in my short career and what my example has shown, that if your willing to jump, so will your pay and experience.
If I had got on a graduate scheme (I did apply for several but didn't get), I would assume I would have been on £30k after finishing the grad scheme after two years. Therefore I actually believe, that my salary now is higher than a graduate scheme and I have the additional benefit of working for several firms in the industry (lots of contacts and local knowledge).
My experience also shows, that my first employer should have responded to my request and offered me the £3k pay increase. I actually met my boss the other day and he's quite impressed at where I am. (I'm sure's he is now wishing he had increase my salary earlier).
And finally, this also shows it is worth signing up on Linkedin