Negotiation is an intimidating art, and most of us have no idea where the brush is.
Here’s a hint: negotiating isn’t about being pushy or aggressive like you see in movies. It’s about having a confident, well-prepared conversation to ensure you’re being paid what you deserve.
But it’s a big deal, too, so you want to get it right. Here are six tips that will help you approach your negotiation with a level head and plenty of knowledge.
Do Plenty of Research
Know your market value before you go into talks. Research what professionals with your level of experience, skills, and in your geographic area are making for a similar role. Sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn are excellent resources, with the latter being a platform to discuss salaries with others in your field directly. You aren’t hunting for a single number, either: you want a range — one that feels reasonable to work within for both you and your company.
Understand Your Value
Instead of just saying, “I want a higher salary,” frame your request around the value you bring to the company. Talk about your accomplishments and contributions; the more specific, the better. Don’t hesitate to back up your claims with data, either. No one can argue with stats, so saying that your project led to a 10% reduction in costs is much better than going “I’m good at my job.”
Practice
Yes, talking to yourself in the mirror sounds silly. But honestly, it’ll help more than you know. Doing it with another person is even better, but any way you can organize your thoughts and say them out loud will prove to be helpful. Negotiating is a skill, and one you’ll be a lot more confident in if you practice.
Don’t Throw Out the First Number
This is a classic salary negotiation tip. The person who says a number first often loses some leverage. Instead, try to get the hiring manager or your boss to state their number first. It’s not exactly an easy tactic, and don’t be the person to let the room sit in silence for much too long. Ask a leading question instead to see if they can provide a number, like, “What was the salary you had in mind for this position?”
Be Ready to Hear a No
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the answer will be no. And remember that that’s okay! A “no” isn’t a dead end; it’s a new opportunity for a different conversation. It might be scary, but ask why. More specifically, understand what you need to do to eventually turn this into a “yes” in the future. This proves to them that you’re motivated to grow within the company.
Choose Your Timing
They say timing is everything, but that’s never been truer than in negotiating your salary. If you’ve recently been offered a job, the best time to ask for a higher salary is directly after your offer. If you’re trying to get a raise at a current job, pick a time that works with you and your manager. Don’t spring it on them in the middle of their lunch hour just because it’s on your mind; they need time to prepare just as much as you do.
