How to Negotiate a Salary With a Manager
Salary negotiation strikes fear into the hearts of many prospective and current employees. Stepping up to the plate to negotiate a competitive salary and benefits package requires a dynamic strategy and careful planning. The fair market value of your skills, experience and education will all be evaluated by your employer during then negotiation. Remember that the negotiation process can also involve signing non-complete or non-disclosure agreements, which can also serve as factors during the salary discussion process. Typically, employees discuss salary with managers when initially hired and at annual reviews.
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Instructions
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Instructions
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Research comparable salaries for positions in your geographic area. Many sites offer specific details on a range of salaries based on years of experience and city of employment. The Bureau of Labor statistics features a general overview of most areas of employment, and provides details on job duties and average salaries. Take a mental note of the skills and job duties listed for similar positions.
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Compare salary information from your research to your job description. Look for any areas where you go above and beyond the standard duties of your job. Take note of extra duties or tasks you regularly perform that aren't considered standard requirements of similar positions. Increased responsibilities help create a case for an increased salary and benefits package.
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Use a pencil and notepad to write down any skills or duties that you perform outside the normal scope of the position's job description. Add to the list by writing down specific examples of going above and beyond management expectations at a job. Be as specific as possible, noting customer compliments, numbers for increased sales or positive effects to the department due to your work.
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Go over the notes and perform a mock negotiation with a friend or on your own. Build a case to your prospective boss or current employer based on facts, experience and specific examples of success for the company. Approach the mock discussion in a friendly but professional manner. Remember, you must provide evidence to support your salary request. Conducting a mock negotiation preps you for hard questions and helps ease nerves at the time of the meeting.
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Bring the notebook and notes to the discussion with your manager. Use the data acquired on comparable salaries, job duties and areas where you excel during the meeting. Communicate ways in which you've been professionally proactive, such as pursuing an advanced degree or certification. Keep the focus on the value you add to the company and relevant examples. Remain flexible and use data to support your requests for increased compensation.
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Tips & Warnings
Talking about money and benefits with an employer could turn into a potentially awkward discussion. Approach the meeting candidly and with a good attitude to put everyone at ease.
Managers may offer increased benefits in lieu of a salary increase.
Never act entitled to a salary increase or raise. This behavior will only negatively impact your manager's view of the negotiations.
Do not negotiate aggressively or give the employer ultimatums. This type of strategy leaves little room for positive communication.
