How to Negotiate a Higher Salary
Who does not want a higher salary? Whether you are just starting a job and negotiating an initial salary or you are trying to renegotiate it after years of service, different strategies can make you more likely to see success. The following tips can help you achieve your goal.
Show confidence but do not demand
If you already work for the company do not go in demanding a raise like a dictator in a conquered country. Not only will you probably not get it, but you will likely gain the disfavor of your boss as well. Unless you have some major asset that the boss or company cannot live without, your boss is unlikely to cede to demands. On the other hand you want to appear confident. Be reasonable. You want to show what you are worth.
If you are going in to a new position, then you can make it clear as to what you will take. Of course be careful because there may be many other people vying for the same position.
Invoke empathy
Your boss may be more likely to raise your salary if he or she feels empathy for your position. Give sensible reasons for needing a higher salary. For instance, you may have just had a new baby and are having difficulty keeping up with the new costs. You can talk to your boss about this.
Know what you are worth
It will be difficult to ask for money if you do not what you are worth. Before you go in, do research to find out what similar people are worth. You can talk about this when you are in the negotiations.
Talk about your contributions
You want to remind them of all that you do. If you helped the company make 5 million dollars that say that. If you always have the best sales numbers of all of the sales people then talk about that. Discuss why you are so valuable.
Do not start at too high an amount
You may want to give a super high amount so that you will have room to negotiate down. The problem is that your boss may balk at such a high number. It can be high but it should be within reason.
Make sure that you choose an opportune time for the salary discussions. You want your boss to have the time for you. Speak earnestly and confidently when giving the points for needing a higher salary. Remember that you may be able to ask for changes in benefits. With work, hopefully you will get the raise you desire.
