How to Engage in Salary Negotiations

Boost Your Comp With These Simple Negotiating Maneuvers

by Sarra Jackson

Annual wages fluctuate each year and depend on many different factors. However, the amount of money a person gets when they first start out is an important base for a person to build on. This can be a difficult topic and uncomfortable to talk about, but there are a few strategies that can be used to negotiate your pay. Some companies ask for your salary history when you are hired, which can make it harder if you are want to make more than you were previously. The best thing to remember is to stay calm and know that it is often a straightforward topic for employers.

Some companies would rather talk about your preferred salary in the beginning of an interview. This is understandable since they don’t want to waste their time or yours if they aren’t going to pay you the amount you want. Unless the interviewer brings it up, though, it is something that should be avoided. Once you know more about the job, and what exactly you are expected to do, you can base your salary on that.  Try not to answer with a specific number for as long as you can. You can say that you understand that this position generally pays between $X and $Y and you feel that is an appropriate range.

Try and get the employer to make the first move regarding a price range. This helps you avoid asking for too little. You can say you were making $X at your last employer and would like to make a little more. It is important to keep in mind that just because you’re getting a new job doesn’t mean you can get more money.

Understand your job responsibilities so you can find information on what the average pay is for that job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has information on many different job titles and their salary ranges. Keep in mind that your experience level, location, and education are components that often determine how much money you are offered.

If you are told that salary is non-negotiable you can try and negotiate other terms, including better benefits. Tuition reimbursement, extra vacation days, and profit sharing are a few examples of what some employees may have more wiggle room in. If you are given an offer, ask for it in writing and take it home to think about for one or two days. This lets you have time to determine if you are getting an amount that you need to live as well as other benefits that you want.

Those that are negotiating with their current employer for a raise must consider their history and job performance with the company. If you are not given a raise then ask your employer to sit down with you and tell you what can be done to increase your income potential.

Negotiating your salary may be an uncomfortable topic but a little bit of confidence can go a long way. Remember that your employer has also had to ask for a raise in the past, so they should understand your reasoning. If they can’t offer you money now, they will most likely offer you whatever help they can give. Don’t ever sell yourself short: Your time is valuable, and your skills make you eligible to earn more money.