Negotiating Your Way to a Better Salary and Benefits Package
Negotiations can be intimidating. Whether it's negotiating the price of a car or haggling over the cost of a couch on Craigslist, it can be difficult to stand your ground and get the deal you deserve. But if there's one thing you should always negotiate, it's your salary and benefits package. After all, your income and well-being are two of the most important factors in your life! Let’s take a look at some tips for how to get the best salary and benefits package possible.
Do Your Research
Before you enter any negotiation, make sure you know what you’re talking about! Do some research on other positions within the same industry that have similar job descriptions—this will give you an idea of what kind of compensation you should expect from your employer. It will also help you come up with concrete reasons as to why you deserve a higher salary or better benefits package.
Be Confident
Confidence is key in any negotiation. When asking for a higher salary or a more generous benefits package, make sure that your body language reflects confidence (even if inside you're feeling nervous!). Speak clearly and firmly, and don't be afraid to pause between sentences for added emphasis. Establish yourself as an expert by citing facts that demonstrate why you deserve what you're asking for.
Plan Ahead
Don't go into negotiations completely unprepared! Before entering into any conversation, make sure that you have an idea of what kind of offer would constitute a win-win situation for both parties involved. Have clear goals in mind before walking into any negotiation room so that both parties walk away feeling satisfied with the outcome (even if neither side gets exactly what they wanted).
Negotiating your salary and benefits package is no small feat—but with proper preparation, confidence, and knowledge under your belt, it doesn't have to be daunting either! By doing your research beforehand and having clear goals in mind throughout the process, there's no reason why securing a great salary and/or benefits package shouldn't be entirely achievable. So gear up, take these tips into consideration...and let those negotiations begin! Good luck!