7 STEPS TO A HIGHER SALARY
Men earn more than woman. Yes for the same functions. Yes it is horrible. Knowing that you are part of an ongoing situation means you can start to change it. I’ll help you because if there is something I’ve always taken great pleasure in, it’s salary negotiations.
Pre-determine your chances
If you work for a small, sympathetic company where every cent is used twice, then it probably isn’t very nice to ask for a raise. That shows little understanding. In a case like this it is far better to ask for a percentage of a deal that you’ve closed or a bonus system. This way profit for the company will mean profit for you. Your employer will be happy because they’re assured of your dedication and you’ll be happy because your hard work is rewarded.
BlufF a bit (Men do it too)
I once had a colleague that told our financial director: “Nice Peter, that 250 euro extra per month, but I can buy a dress for that and then it’s gone. Doesn’t make me jump for joy.”
She used her femininity (the nod to the dress was a kind of flirtatious story) and in some strange way also came across very strong, to say to someone that a fairly reasonable amount of money does nothing for you. This way you let people know that you’re used to money and for some unexplainable reason, people give money away easier to other people with money instead of some poor slob.
Start higher
Not sure why but people love negotiating. When buying a house I always think to myself; “We both know where this going to end so why make it so difficult?” But it doesn’t work like that. People get a power kick from making a counter offer. Keep that in mind. It once happened to me, that I got the full salary I requested. Nothing wrong with that.
Make a wish list
Think about what you’d like from your employer up front. More gross salary of course. But a business car, a costly seminar or reimbursement for a new laptop are all good too. Things and education are tax deductible for your employer so he (or she of course) might find this more interesting.
Make room for small change
Write down a list of things that are less important for you and that you don’t mind dropping in the negotiation. This shows that you’re flexible and willing to bend a little. You want a constructive conversation, not something that will ruin your cooperation.
Don’t compare yourself to others
I’m going against the vision of many negotiation coaches here who advise to use what your colleagues earn as an argument. I think this is rubbish. It’s about you. If you say that you feel you deserve more and don’t care what you colleagues are earning, you’re in a far stronger position. I would give you a promotion immediately.
Don’t shop around
I can imagine that it’s very tempting to flirt with other employers and to dangle their offers in your employers face, but I really don’t suggest doing this. I’d immediately advise you to go and work there then. You run the risk of disturbing your working relationship and that wasn’t the intention. Fair play.
Make sure you wear your power suit during the negation. A washed out sweater and baggy jeans won’t cut it.
