Get paid what you deserve

Are you looking for a new job? Or are you thinking of asking for a raise at your current job? If so, you need to read this blog post! In it, we will discuss 10 tips for negotiating your salary. Many people are afraid to negotiate their salary, but if you do it correctly, you can get the pay you deserve. So what are you waiting for? Read on to learn more!

1. Do your research

Before you start negotiating your salary, it’s essential to research and find out the average salary for your position in your area. This will give you a good starting point for negotiations and help you avoid being lowballed.

Lowball offerto give (a customer) a deceptively low price or cost estimate.

2. Know your worth

In addition to knowing the average salary for your position, it’s also important to know your worth. Consider your skills, experience, and education when determining how much you should be paid.

The Canadian Tip: Make a list of your qualifications, accomplishments, and soft skills

3. Have a number in mind

When you start negotiations, have a specific number in mind that you would be happy with. This will help you to avoid accepting a salary that is lower than what you’re worth.

One of my students went into a negotiation with his boss and asked for a 20% increase in salary. With a clear number, the negotiation was able to proceed. 

4. Be prepared to compromise

While having a specific number in mind is important, you should also be prepared to compromise. If the company you’re working for is unwilling to meet your salary demands, be ready to negotiate and find a middle ground that both parties can agree on.

The student who asked for 20% got a 12% increase in the end. It was not the 20% he originally asked for, but double what the employer initially wanted to pay.  

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want

One of the biggest mistakes people make when negotiating their salary is being afraid to ask for what they want. If you don’t ask for what you want, there’s no way you’ll get it. So go into negotiations confidently and don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve.

One of my students accepted the first offer made by her new company. The HR person was surprised that there was no negotiation but said ok. Remember that most employers expect you to negotiate. Hence, their initial offer is lower than what they’re willing and able to pay.  

6. Be confident

Confidence is key when negotiating your salary. If you go into negotiations unsure of yourself, the other party will likely take advantage of that and lowball you on salary. So stand tall, make eye contact, and exude confidence throughout the entire process.

One of the reasons for the gender pay gap is that women don’t negotiate salaries as firmly as men do. Avoid this mistake by being prepared and going in confident in yourself. 

7. Be polite but firm

It’s important to remember that while you are negotiating your salary, you are still trying to build a relationship with your potential employer. That being said, it’s important to be polite but firm throughout the negotiation process. Avoid getting angry or defensive, as this will only worsen the situation.

The Canadian Tip: Read about the difference between assertive and aggressive communication

8. Listen more than you talk

One of the best ways to come out on top in a negotiation is by listening more than you talk. By listening carefully, you’ll better understand the other person’s position and find areas where you can agree or compromise. Additionally, you’ll appear more confident and in control of the situation by talking less.

9. Avoid ultimatums

Ultimatums should be avoided at all costs when negotiating your salary. If you give an ultimatum, such as “I won’t accept anything less than X€,” you’re likely to lose leverage in the negotiation and end up with a lower salary than you originally wanted.

10. Know When to Stop Negotiating

There will come a point where further negotiating is no longer productive and will only damage your relationship with the employer. If this happens, it’s important to know when to stop negotiating and move on from the situation.

Gems to Remember 💎

  • Do your research to know the average salary for your position in your area before negotiating.
  • Consider your skills, experience, and education when determining how much you should be paid so you know your worth going into negotiations.
  • Have a specific number in mind that you would be happy with to avoid accepting a salary lower than what you’re worth, but also be prepared to compromise.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want and remember confidence is key throughout the entire process.
  • Be polite but firm while maintaining eye contact and listening more than talking.
  • Avoid ultimatums and know when it’s time to stop negotiating altogether, if necessary.

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