Negotiating a Better Salary

Salary negotiations are often entered into as part of the interview process for a new job but can also be undertaken within an existing role when aiming for progression and career development. Here is some useful advice which could help you to get the most out of your salary negotiations.

Do your homework

It is important to make sure that your salary expectations are realistic. By researching the level of salary commonly paid for the position that you are applying for you can ensure that you are not pricing yourself out of the market.

When to start negotiating

Ideally, it should be the interviewer who first mentions the salary of the position you are applying for, but if they don’t refer to it, it is probably best to leave salary negotiations until you have actually received a formal offer for the position.

Discussions about salary should involve the complete salary package including any bonuses, staff discounts or other benefits which could make a relatively low offer more appealing.

Salary negotiations are also the opportunity for you to emphasise just how well suited you are to the role and what you can offer the company. It is important that salary negotiations are conducted in a professional and friendly manner so that an agreement can be reached which is acceptable to both parties.

Accepting or declining an offer

You should always think very carefully before making a decision whether or not to accept a salary offer. If the offer is too low, ensure that you tell the interviewer why you will need to consider the offer carefully before giving a response. There may even be some flexibility in the offer if your reasons are justifiable.

Accepting or rejecting an offer should be done professionally and all details should be confirmed in writing. If you do decline a job offer based on the salary, it is important not to burn your bridges with the company as you may consider employment with them in the future.

Negotiating your current salary

When negotiating for a higher salary in your current job it is again important to make sure your expectations are realistic, and that you broach the subject at the most appropriate time.

An official appointment with your manager is the best way to discuss the subject of a salary increase and it is important that you focus on why you think it is justified in terms of your own personal performance and contribution to the company rather than, for example, simply complaining that you are not paid enough or that other colleagues earn more than you.

Sometimes, your employer may feel that additional bonuses or perks are more realistic than an actual increase in salary and these offers should always be given careful consideration; you do not wish to appear ungrateful or unprofessional if your requests are not met. However, if you accept the offer of an alternative to a salary increase and continue to perform effectively in your role, you may find that your chances of a salary increase are better next time.