Salary Negotiation Tips for Women in Business - CareerMetis.com

Salary Negotiation Tips for Women in Business It’s always hard to talk about salaries. Especially when the conversation is happening with a stranger who is the gatekeeper between you and your dream job. Before going straight into the conversation, here’s what you need to consider.Don’t Learn the Hard WayevalDuring my first job, I was able to go through a temporary placement agency to get an accounting assistant position at an advertising agency. The advertising agency chose to hire me full-time.evalThe advertising agency was paying an extra fee to the placement agency, so when I went full-time with them, they offered to negotiate my salary a bit higher. I had never even thought about my pay. I was just happy to have a job that I liked.I went into the salary negotiation meeting and pretty much agreed to anything they suggested. A few months later, I was talking with a newly hired production assistant. She had the same experience and education and was in a similar role and level in the org chart as me.When we were going to l unch one day, we drove in her car, which was parked in our office building parking garage. I told her I had to park in a paid lot several blocks away since it cost so much to park in the building’s garage.She said that the ad agency was paying for her parking. She had negotiated that when she was hired. I was kicking myself for not having thought through the salary negotiation process more. I definitely learned my lesson!Do Your ResearchThere is no substitute for preparation before a salary negotiation. A small number of people might get lucky and stumble through the interview and job offer successfully. But, most of us really need to do the background investigation to survive a salary negotiation.Salary ResearchAccording to several sources There is more to the equation than just perceived sexism. Linda Babcock It is critical to find an average of your role in a similar company in your city or region. You cannot base your value on salaries in New York if you are looking for a job in Kansas and vice versa.Also, don’t overlook your special expertise or skills. If you can bring additional duties or cross-training to the table, be sure and mention that in your salary negotiation.Be confident and explain the reasons for your worth to the company in quantifiable terms.Leverage your previous salary and your prior standingIn your research process, don’t forget to note all of your awards, credentials, and certifications. Make sure you know how you have improved your department, division, cost center, and organization quantifiably.Did sales rise under your oversight by 28%? Was there a 10% reduction in call escalations during your tenure?Did you attend training or participate in continuing education to learn a new skill or advance in your career? You want to include all of the training and certifications that could help to boost your worth to the company. For example,Microsoft Office skillsare important to the success of many organizations. That extra Microsoft Ex cel Expert certification you have could be what is needed to help them improve the skill level for the project team you are joining.If you have performed well in your last position, emphasize this. Don’t be shy, but also don’t over-exaggerate or be obnoxious about it. Use your prior position and salary to push for a higher salary in the new job or position. Remember that salary negotiation can happen when you advance in your current organization, not just when you change jobs.Company ResearchThe other part of your investigation should be company focused. This may take more time, depending on whether you are moving to a different position at your current company versus if you are taking a post at a new company.You may find some of this information in the job description or on the organization’s website. Look at the position through the company’s eyes. See what the position is worth to them.evalHere are some questions to ask:How vital and crucial is it for them to fill the pos ition with a qualified applicant?What are the organization’s policies on salary negotiation?Do they have a range for the offer?Can they approve a higher starting salary depending on experience, education, or skill level?What is the demand for employees in the position? What is the supply available of qualified applicants?Practice, Practice, PracticeSo, you’ve done your research. What’s next? Have someone ConclusionTo prepare for a successful salary negotiation, doing your research is critical.Line out your skills, talents, experience, etc. on paper.Investigate the position’s salary and salary range for your city/region.Practice your negotiation with a trusted friend or colleague.Talk with others in your field and listen to their advice and tips. Different techniques may work in one industry better than others.Remember that your investment in this preparation process is worth it!