This is how you quickly get that salary increase

Somehow, it remains a complicated topic, especially for women: salary increase. It is known that women are generally paid less than men, even while performing the same job. We can complain about this, and there certainly needs to be structural change, but an important part of that change is that we also actively negotiate. You could adhere to a sort of ‘guideline’ for salary increase or promotion: within 2 to 3 years it should happen, otherwise you can cautiously assume that advancing in your current job is not an option. Of course, you have to do something for that as well. Your employer must realize that you are worth it. These tips will help you to be well-prepared when the time for negotiation comes.

Negotiating is very normal. Even if you are in permanent employment.

You might think that negotiating your salary is weird if you are employed, or that it comes across as ungrateful or rude, but nothing could be further from the truth. It actually shows that you are serious about your job and want to continue working for the company, but that there should be something in return. You want to keep developing, and ultimately you need a certain confirmation from your employer for that. Preparing the negotiation well is key: know what your goal is, what outcome do you want to achieve? Do you know what is ‘normal’ for similar positions, or what your male colleague earns? But make sure you have good arguments and can clearly explain why you deserve that increase or promotion.

Taking courses or training is really handy

If you want to give yourself a stronger position in the negotiations, it may be necessary to take an extra course or training. This way, you learn additional skills that can be useful in performing your new role (in case you are looking for a promotion). And the possibility of broadening your responsibilities within your current position gives you a good argument for a salary increase.

If it doesn't work out in your current job, you should look for other options

Are you convinced that your negotiating position is good, but that you just can't get further with your current employer? Then calmly look for a new employer! It can be scary, but having coffee chats can never hurt. You might find out that another company offers internal courses, or that they generally pay more. And sometimes, if you are really on the verge of switching because you have received a good offer, you can bring this up with your current employer. If you are actually very happy there, and your salary or growth opportunities are the only hassle, it might help if you still want to try to stay. Maybe your boss doesn't want to lose you at all, but only realizes through this that you are really serious about your value to the company and would like to see something in return for that.