WGU Career & Professional Development
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Salary Negotiation - Putting It All Together
Now that you have done your research and put a plan into place, it is time to negotiate your salary or raise!
Negotiating Salary for a New Job
Let the potential employer bring up salary first. If you bring up salary in the first interview unprompted, it can be interpreted that your focus is mainly on compensation and not on the company or the position. If an employer asks for your salary requirements, it is ok to turn the question back to them and ask for the range they have established for the position. Let them know that you would consider an offer in that range without tying yourself to a number.
Take time to receive and consider an official offer before accepting or countering. Unless the employer clearly states that it is a hard offer with no wiggle room (you always have the option to turn down an offer), you can always negotiate. Don't let fear stand in your way of asking for more if you feel your market research and accomplishments support a higher salary. Employers expect salary negotiations and asking for more, if done in a professional manner, will not result in the employer rescinding the offer.
Keep calm and negotiate on. Negotiating can feel scary, exciting, and stressful but always keep the conversation positive and professional. Continue to remind the employer of your passion and interest in the position and the value you can bring to the organization.
View negotiation strategies in action. To view a strong example of the salary negotiation process in action, please view this video. It also includes helpful explanations and discussion related to the strategies utilized.
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Requesting a Raise
Pick an appropriate time. Consider when raises are generally granted at your company. Commonly, raises are tied to performance evaluations. If there does not seem to be a process in place, consider scheduling a time with your supervisor to review your performance and discuss the raise you are seeking.
Make requests that are reasonable within the company's pay structure. Do your homework to determine what is reasonable. Companies may have pay grades and salary caps in place. Determine if you are seeking additional compensation for going above and beyond in your current role or would like a promotion. A new job title that is higher up in the organization may allow for a more significant increase.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Contact a Career & Professional Development Advisor for assistance with salary negotiations and practicing your request. Salary negotiation can be challenging but also rewarding. Develop your negotiation skills today.