Top tips for negotiating your salary package in a new job
The interview process for a new job is challenging enough for most people, but negotiating the salary and package is usually the most terrifying part.
The proof is in the numbers: In November 2021, half of the top Google searches for negotiation-related questions were about salary, and there’s been a 3800% increase in Aussies searching for ‘how to negotiate salary for a new job’ since 2018*.
*SEMrush data
To help make the process easier for you, here are my top tips for negotiating salary in a new job:
1. Get clarity regarding what’s on offer
These days a lot of job ads tend to leave the salary and package out, meaning you need to proactively find this out yourself. There’s no point wasting time in the interview process if the salary allocated for the role is nowhere near your expectations (for example, if you’re looking for a $100k base salary but the role is offering $50k). However don’t be deterred if it’s close but under what you’re hoping for – this is what negotiating is all about! Make sure you have clarity at the start of the process what they have budgeted for the role. And, if possible, try to ask this before they ask you what your expectations are for the job.
2. Have a clear plan and strategy
The workplace has changed dramatically in the past two years. Flexible working arrangements are now the norm and a key element of employee packages. Before you enter a negotiation with a potential employer, make sure you have done all of the relevant research and planning to present your requests in an informed and structured way.
I would recommend ensuring the following:
a. Research industry benchmarks for the role to ensure what you’re asking for is fair and reasonable
b. Create a list of additional benefits (outside of base salary and super) that could form your remuneration package (such as flexible work arrangements and hours, training provided, bonus, tools needed such as equipment for remote working) and work out your order of priority
c. Be very clear on what your bottom line is and don’t be afraid to walk away from the negotiation. Being successful in a negotiation doesn’t mean winning, it means getting the outcome you want and you won’t get that from every person you negotiate with. For example, you might find the perfect job that you know you are a great fit for, but if the company doesn’t have the budget for the remuneration you’re looking for, then it’s not the right job for you. Never devalue your worth – you’ve worked hard to earn the package you’re asking for so find companies that recognise and reward that.
3. Address any reservations directly
It is so important to address any concerns or reservations your potential employer might have about you during the interview process, and preferably in the earlier stages. It’s hard to change someone’s mind once they make a decision about your skills and suitability for the role so it’s crucial you address it upfront. Ask direct questions such as:
“Which parts of the role, if any, would you be hesitant about me being able to do?”
“Do you have any reservations about my suitability for this role or fitting into the company culture?”
“Ideally, what will the next person bring to this role that was missing previously?”
Asking these questions allows you to put your case forward and share information that you may not have shared in the interview so far, and demonstrate exactly the skills and experience you have. It’s best the interviewer hears these answers directly from you, then is left wondering after the interview.
If you need some personalised help with an upcoming negotiation, or ready to invest in your future and learnt to negotiate successfully today please get in touch as I’d love to work with. Contact me at kate@katelalak.com and we can organise a convenient time to have a chat.