Finding the right words can help you get the salary you deserve
Persuading your prospective employers to give you a higher starting salary can be a great challenge. While this is true for people of both sexes, women are at a clear disadvantage since they don’t usually say what they want to say, especially when it comes to negotiating job offers. If ever they do, they merely tend to imply what they want without coming out and directly asking for it.?
If this describes you, you need to know that you can get the salary you deserve by knowing what, and more importantly, what not to say when your future employers finally offer you the job. As most experts will tell you, you can get what you want with the right presentation and attitude. ?
What Not to Say (or Do) When Negotiating Your Salary?
To successfully negotiate a higher salary than what your future employer is offering, here is a list of things you absolutely shouldn’t say or do:
- Saying you’re sorry. Women tend to apologize for everything, even when there is no reason for them to do so. Don’t say you’re sorry when asking for a higher salary than what they can offer or when asking for a raise. It would only lessen the weight of your argument.
- Discounting your worth. Don’t fall into the trap of asking for less than what you are worth just to get your foot in the door. Remember, women are actually paid less in the workplace. ‘Gender gap pay’ still exists despite the Equal Pay Act. Be confident to ask for what you deserve and you may just get it.
- Agreeing to the first offer. If you think you are worth more than the first offer, then try to negotiate. You will have better bargaining power if you know your current market value.
- Saying “no” when you feel that the conversation is going nowhere. This will put the negotiation to an end so instead of turning your back, you may want to ask why your future employer cannot give you the salary you want. Try to see if you can work something out instead of closing the door permanently. ? ?
Some Useful Tips When Negotiating Your Salary?
- Do your research. Look for sources that can give you a fairly accurate idea on what your services are worth in the employment marketplace.
- Let the employer disclose the salary for the job. If you can’t do it, try providing a wide range based on the research you have previously made.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Your future employer actually expects you to negotiate for a higher salary and provide a counteroffer, so speak up.
Remember, you can possibly get what you deserve if you have the courage to negotiate.
