When it comes to our careers, we most certainly do what we can to receive the highest pay possible. Whether you are interviewing for your dream job or have been loyal to your current gig for several years, negotiating a higher salary is something everyone should be willing and confident enough to do.
When to Ask for More Money
When you hold a position where the value of the work and tasks you do on a daily basis is not fairly reflected in the salary you are paid, it may be time to consider asking for a wage that better compensates your workload, talents, and efforts.
It is also important when interviewing to ask for a competitive salary for any position for which you are applying whether it is at a new company or even your current company.
Here are some tips on how to negotiate a higher salary to earn what you are worth in today’s employment market.
5 Tips to Negotiate a Better Salary
- Know Your Worth – It is important to know your worth and what you bring to the table for the position for which you are applying. Negotiating for your dream job may cause you to take a lower offer just to get in the door (where you can negotiate a larger salary later!), yet knowing a different company needs your expertise for their success may add a little bargaining power for you when it comes to salary.
- Declare a Salary Range – When questioned about the salary of a position, decide on a salary range versus a firm figure. Offering a salary range that is comparable with industry standards works best and leaves room for negotiating and compromise on both sides to reach an acceptable agreement.
- Be Humble – Negotiating does not mean showing up with a demanding attitude or ungrateful stance. Be kind and humble throughout the process, and don’t forget to show appreciation for the opportunity, no matter what the outcome.
- Know the Perks– When talking salary, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Remember that all benefits of a position are not in the form of a paycheck. Things like bonuses, health insurance, paid time off, etc. are valuable and should be included in negotiations as a salary plus an extensive benefits package.
- Don’t Accept Too Quickly – If you have any question at all about the offer – don’t accept it. It’s your right and a savvy negotiating tactic, too. Take the time you need to evaluate the offer, and request to set up a meeting within the next day or two. At the next meeting, you can accept, or submit a counteroffer and negotiate.
Get Paid the Salary You Deserve
With these savvy tips, you can successfully negotiate your salary without lacking confidence and feeling intimidated.
Practice your negotiation skills, do your research about industry salary ranges, and have confidence in your abilities and experience to land the job and a worthy salary that matches your qualifications.
