Salary negotiation h...

Salary negotiation: how to approach it

16 July 2024

You’ve been thinking about it for months but hesitate to knock on your boss’s door to ask for a raise. Salary negotiations can feel nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you’ll feel more confident and increase your chances of success. In this blog, we’ll guide you through when and how to negotiate your salary, plus six practical tips to prepare.

When should you negotiate salary?

During a job interview for a new position – this is the perfect moment to discuss salary.
When starting a new role within your current company, such as after a promotion.
During a performance or appraisal review with your manager – salary is often part of this conversation.
Or: proactively schedule a meeting yourself. This shows initiative and a professional attitude.

6 Salary Negotiation Tips to Prepare

1. Define your minimum and maximum

Know your bottom line and your ideal salary. Keep it realistic and aligned with market standards. Check the relevant collective labor agreement (CAO) or salary benchmarks for your role.

2. List your strengths and achievements

What makes you valuable to the company? Prepare concrete examples of your performance, skills, and results.

3. Consider secondary benefits

Compensation isn’t always about salary. Think of travel allowance, vacation days, flexible hours, training, or bonuses. These secondary employment benefits can be just as valuable.

4. Put agreements in writing

After the conversation, make sure agreements are documented clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

5. Don’t compare yourself to colleagues

Their salary might differ for many reasons. Focus on your own performance, achievements, and added value.

6. Practice the conversation

Think ahead: what counterarguments might your employer have? How will you respond? Rehearse your answers to feel more confident.

Final tip: dare to ask

Salary negotiation may feel uncomfortable, but preparation is half the work. Gather your courage, prepare your case, and take the step.

If the negotiation doesn’t go as you hoped and you’re ready for a new opportunity, check out our vacancies – your next job might be waiting for you!

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