If you’re starting to negotiate your salary and benefits package or just considering asking for more, it is essential to be prepared. Utilizing effective negotiation strategies will enable you to reach your objectives.
Gaining clarity on your worth and the market value for your position can give you a competitive advantage.
Know Your Worth
When negotiating your salary and benefits package, determining how much you should earn is an essential first step. By researching your worth based on years of experience, skillset and location, taking the time to research how much more pay you deserve can help ensure that you receive what you deserve.
To help you determine how much you’re worth, Glassdoor provides the Know Your Worth tool that takes into account salary reports and market trends (excluding bonus compensation) to give you a starting salary figure.
Once you understand your market value, setting a breakpoint for any offers that don’t meet your desired number can help ensure you don’t overcharge.
Know the Company’s Needs
Negotiating your salary and benefits package is an essential step towards safeguarding your financial future. It can also be a fun and rewarding experience if done with the right attitude and strategy.
To get the best deal possible, start by understanding your company’s needs. Evaluate their mission and vision to determine if this is something that you are passionate about and can contribute towards achieving.
This will enable you to gain insight into their current financial position and position yourself for a more advantageous pay package.
Once you understand their goals, it’s time to research your skills, knowledge and connections within the company in order to demonstrate that you can meet or surpass those standards.
A well-crafted negotiation pitch, practiced and presented with assurance, will enable you to deliver your message with power and ease. This sets the stage for a successful negotiation that meets both your needs and makes you feel valued at the same time.
Know the Job’s Value
Before you can begin bargaining for your salary and benefits package, it is essential to first understand what the job requires. Doing this will enable you to assess your own worth in relation to the position’s needs, thus leading to a higher offer.
To determine the job value, conduct some research. There are various methods for doing this such as looking at market data on average salaries for your job type and industry.
This data can be obtained through various sources, such as the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, keep in mind that salaries will vary based on factors like your geographic location and years of experience.
Know Your Options
Negotiating your salary and benefits package doesn’t have to be an exercise in frustration; just be clear about what matters most to you and ensure your employer understands that.
Start by researching the average salary for your job category and industry within your geographic location to establish a baseline. Don’t forget to factor in non-monetary benefits as well.
These can include paid time off (PTO), insurance, and other work-related incentives that you may not be getting elsewhere.
You may also inquire about other aspects of the package which may be easier to negotiate for. For instance, if you have young children, you might negotiate for flexible work hours or parental leave.