Salary negotiation can be scary. Whether you are starting a new job, or in the running for a promotion, it’s something you might need to consider doing. Find useful tips on how to negotiate your salary and get the increase you deserve!
When Should I Negotiate my Salary?
It’s best to do this after you receive an offer rather than during the early stages of the interview process. You have already proven that you are the best candidate for the job, which gives you an advantage. Here is when you should negotiate your salary:
- It Doesn’t Reflect Your Experience – The offer is too low for your level of education, experience and skills.
- You Might Need to ask for a Raise Later on – Asking for a higher salary now is easier than asking for a raise later.
- It Will Impact Your Lifestyle – Your new salary isn’t enough to maintain your lifestyle and basic needs.
- The Company can Afford it – They might have the funds available. Ask if the offer they gave is final before you accept or decline.
It’s also important to only request a salary offer change once or twice at the most. Avoid asking for a change to your compensation package if you have already agreed to the terms.
Tips on How to Negotiate Your Salary
Negotiating your salary doesn’t have to be as terrifying as it sounds. Knowing how to do this can only benefit you in the long run. Here are some top tips on how to negotiate your salary with ease.
Look at What you Have to Offer
It’s important to know exactly what your value as an employee is before you negotiate anything. There are a few factors you should consider. This includes:
- Your location
- Years of experience
- Education level
- Career level
- Skills
- Licences and certifications.
Do Your Research
Take the time to do some market average research. This can give you a good baseline for your salary request. Search your job title using Indeed Salaries or Payscale to help you with this.
Prepare Your Talking Points
‘Why do you feel you deserve a higher salary than the one offered?’ – This is the main question you need to focus on. Put together a few talking points and be as specific as you can.
Ask a Friend to Help you Rehearse
Once you have your talking points, you need to practice them. This can be done by asking a friend or coworker you trust to help you prepare and make suggestions if needed.
Be Confident
Delivering your negotiation with confidence is as important as the words you say. But be careful not to confuse this with arrogance.
Share Job-related Expenses
Whether you had to relocate or travel further after taking the job, you will have extra expenses. Most employers are willing to adjust your salary because of this if you ask.
Be Flexible
If your employer can’t afford to provide the salary amount you want, there may be other forms of compensation. This includes extra leave days or working from home to save on traveling costs.
Show That You’re Grateful
Let the employer know that you are thankful for the job offer regardless of whether or not you accept the offer.
Things you Should Avoid Saying When Asking for a Raise
Every boss or company is different. But when it comes to asking for raise, there are some universal things you should avoid at all costs. Here are some of the most common things you should not bring up during a raise discussion:
- “I Know the Timing Isn’t Great but…”
- “I’ve Been Here for a Year Now…”
- “I’m Doing the Work of Three People…”
- “I Haven’t Had a Pay Raise Since…”
- “If I Don’t Get a Raise, I’m Leaving…”
- “You Need Me More Than I Need You….”
Talk Your Way Into a Better Salary!
You may be one step closer to the salary of your dreams. Increase your chances by boosting your skills with our distance learning courses! Contact one of our course experts by using one of the following:
- Call us for free on 0800 39 0027
- Fill in our online contact form
