A salary is a driving force and elemental consideration factor of working life; indeed, until we can live in a nice home rent- or mortgage-free, shop for groceries without asking prices or buy cars by way of something other than money, the element of income remains paramount.
Taking this into consideration, mastering salary negotiation and requesting periodic raises are critical determining factors when deciding to take a new job or when evaluating your value in an existing position. Here, we’re going to look at ways you can help polish those career negotiation skills because they can indeed change your career – and net you the pay you deserve.
Beef Up Your Interview Answers About Salary Expectations
The greatest interview in the world doesn’t stop the awkwardness and complexity of that one question that eventually pops up: “What are you looking for in terms of salary?”
There are a myriad of ways to approach interview questions concerning salary, and it’s vital to determine how best to answer that question because more often than not, it will be asked of you at your next interview. In general, we can tell you that during an interview many people skirt around this question with a broad answer such as “My salary expectations are in line with my experience and qualifications” or “If this is the right position for me, I am sure we can come to some kind of agreement on salary.”
However, a recruiter or interviewer is going to be looking for a bottom-line number, because that’s what it’s all about to HR departments, so be prepared with a target salary figure – or at least have a range in mind.
Wait for the Appropriate Time
Once you know what you should be earning, how do you go about getting it? Start by learning patience. When interviewing for a new position, do your best to resist bringing up compensation until the employer makes you an offer. In this same fashion, wait until the offer is discussed to counter it.
Advocate for Yourself (Because Career Negotiation is an Asset)
Particularly for women, negotiating and advocating powerfully for themselves when it comes to salary is a challenge; some key strategies that will help you communicate and negotiate with more authority and confidence include:
• Understanding preparation is key
• Practicing in low-stakes scenarios
• Understanding negotiation is just a conversation
• Embracing the “power of the pause”
• Leveraging your authentic assets
• Being as fluid and flexible as possible
Prepare and Base Your Negotiation Request on Data
In other words, do your research beforehand and access your network for insight. The first step in negotiating a salary that reflects what you’re worth includes arming yourself with some market data on average salaries for your position, keeping in mind that certain parts of the country pay more than others.
Highlight Your Previous Achievements and Competencies
This includes pointing out the value you will bring to the company you’re interviewing for, and the fact that you will be able to demonstrate it. This should emphasize experience and results you achieved during revenue, savings, efficiency and productivity activities, with examples relevant to the organization or role.
Honor Your Expectations and Don’t Undersell Yourself
You are always your own best ambassador, so aim for a competitive deal that you are happy with.
Negotiate Other Benefits
This can include flexible work schedules, paid training opportunities and reimbursement for certificates.
Believe us when we say employers will respect you should you wield these negotiating attributes – especially if you are targeting a leadership role.
