In this post, we’ll talk you through when is the right time to negotiate for a better salary, what the benefits are and some top tips.
When to negotiate a better salary and benefits
The job interview is a great time to learn more about the salary and benefits that come with the role. Some roles may be advertised with a salary range, so it’s great to use this time to learn more about what salary you might be offered if you were successful.
However, if you have been offered a salary that doesn’t quite meet your expectations, there are certain instances where it’s appropriate to negotiate for a better deal. For instance, at the end of a successful hiring process you might feel like your experience and qualifications deserve a more competitive salary, and this is a good time to try ad negotiate for more.
If you’re already in your role, occasions such as getting a promotion, gaining more qualifications or taking on more responsibility can be good times to bring up the idea of an improved salary of benefits package.
Benefits of negotiation
Being in a position to negotiate for a better salary or perks can have a number of benefits, especially during the job offer stage. Not only can negotiating help to build your confidence and even build respect to some degree, but it can also help to avoid any future conflict or disagreement.
Negotiating your salary or other package can help to ensure both you and your employer are happy, forging a positive relationship for the future.
Top tips for negotiating a better salary and benefits
If you’re hoping to negotiate for an improved salary or other such benefits, it can help to be prepared. We have some top tips here to help you along the way.
Research market rates
Before approaching a salary negotiation, you should have a look at the wider market to understand what the current rates are for your role or similar jobs. Knowing the average salary can help you to understand if there is a maximum or minimum that you should be negotiating for, whether it’s benefits that come with a job or a monetary value. By knowing this information, you may have a better chance of a positive outcome. You can use resources like Glassdoor, PayScale or LinkedIn salary.
Know your worth
Take the time to evaluate your skills and experience, and be sure to highlight your achievements, certifications or other unique skills that you feel help to set you apart. With this in mind, you can quantify your impact much more effectively. It’s key that you’re able to show how you’ve added value in your previous roles, including metrics where possible.
Choose your timing
Timing is everything when it comes to negotiation. Let the employer bring up salary or other packages first, so you don’t undervalue yourself accidentally. You should also focus on your suitability for the role first, before bringing up salary. Talking about numbers too quickly could tarnish the rapport you’ve started to build.
Prepare a salary range
Based on your research, come armed with a salary range that you feel would best fit your situation and experience. This can be more successful than providing a single figure, as it leaves room for you and the employer to meet in the middle. Be sure to include the value of other benefits and perks in your considerations too.
Consider the whole package
When you’re looking to negotiate a better deal for yourself, it’s worth looking beyond salary. Prioritise what matters most to you and decide which benefits are more of a deal-breaker. This could include things like bonuses, paid time off, flexible working, professional development opportunities or health and tech benefits.
Practice your pitch
Once you feel a little more prepared and understand what you’re trying to get out of your negotiations, practice! Roleplay your conversation with a friend or even mentor, as it can give you the chance to practice responding to different scenarios so that you can feel more well-equipped to deal with what comes next. You should always conduct yourself in a positive and professional manner, and frame your argument as a mutual benefit where you can.
Be ready to justify yourself
Any sort of request for an increase in salary or other such benefits should come with a strong justification, so that the employer can see the value in it. Utilise what evidence you can find, whether it’s market research, your previous accomplishments or other ways of how you can and will contribute to the company’s future success. As well as this, you should ensure that you are as specific as possible and focus on facts.
Don’t be afraid of silence
While you might be hoping for an immediate response so that you can move forward, it’s likely that you’ll need to give space for a response. Stay calm and composed, and let the employer process the information they’ve been given without feeling the need to jump in further. It may be that they ask for a follow-up meeting, in which case you should respect the decision.
Be flexible and open to discussion
You may want to be prepared with alternative options, should your top request not be met. For instance, if your salary request isn’t successful, there could be a discussion for another perk that helps you to feel more valued within the business. This could be anything from a signing bonus to increase in annual leave per service year.
Get agreements in writing
Above all else, once the terms are finalised, you should request a written letter that includes the details of any changes made to your salary or benefits package. You should also take the time to review this carefully and make sure everything is documented accurately.
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