7 Best Tips to Negotiate Your Salary!
The best way to ensure you get the pay you deserve is to know how to negotiate your salary. Here are seven steps you can take to get ready for your next salary negotiation.
1. Do Your Research
If you’re thinking about asking for a raise, you’ll want to make sure you’re being realistic. While you may believe you’re worth the salary you’re looking for, make sure it’s in line with industry norms for a similar position.
Look up expected salary ranges for the position you’re interested in on the internet. If you can’t find what you’re looking for on the internet, call some recruiters. Create a salary range that you’d be willing to consider.
2. Select a Specific Number
Do not enter a salary negotiation with only a salary range in mind. If you don’t seem confident in your salary request, the employer may not think you’re worth that much.
Choose a number that falls somewhere near the top of your salary range. If you choose an exact number rather than a rounded figure, you’ll demonstrate to the hiring manager that you’ve given serious consideration to how much you’d like to be paid.
3. Have a “Walk Away” Point
The lowest salary you’d be willing to accept should be your “walk away” point. You won’t have to think about this number while your potential employer is waiting for you if you think about it before you walk into a negotiation.
Your break-even point could be determined by your cost of living, a financial need, or simply because you know your work is worth more. While it may be difficult to turn down a job offer, accepting a salary that is significantly less than what you require will only harm you in the long run.
4. Write Down Talking Points
When it comes to asking for a raise in pay, you’ll need to have a few reasons to back up your request. When you’re nervous, however, you’re more likely to forget what you’re trying to say.
Create a one-page sheet that outlines all of the reasons you deserve a raise or a higher salary to alleviate the stress. If you already work for the company, you might want to include some details about specific projects you’ve worked on and how your contributions aided them. Talking points about accomplishments, awards, or certifications will suffice if you’re interviewing with a new company.
5. Get Comfortable
The more you practise saying what you want to say, the more at ease you’ll be when it’s time to speak with your boss or hiring manager. Spend some time familiarising yourself with the points you want to make and the discussion you want to have.
It’s a good idea to start by writing down your talking points. You should also practise your conversation aloud a few times. If you have a friend or family member who is willing to sit with you, talking through the main points with another person can be very beneficial.
6. Carry Yourself with Confidence
When it comes to asking for a raise, confidence is crucial. Take a few moments to breathe deeply and practise your power stance, which exudes confidence, right before you go into your meeting.
Keep your head held high and a smile on your face when you’re ready to walk into your boss’s office or a meeting. Maintain a positive attitude and be approachable, but firm in your resolve.
7. Lead with Your Accomplishments
Instead of jumping right into the conversation and asking for more money, start off by talking about your accomplishments. Move the conversation forward by discussing what you could accomplish for the company if you were paid more.
When your boss decides to raise your pay, it’s because they want to make a profit. They’re unlikely to agree to your terms if they don’t see the value in giving you more money. Rather than assuming they understand the value, don’t be afraid to explain it to them.
Need more tips on how to negotiate your salary? Seek guidance from career and resume consultants.
