How to Negotiate a Higher Starting Salary

Even when you manage to snaffle the job of your dreams, there is still the question of salary. Is it possible to negotiate a higher starting rate? Yes, it is, provided you take a good look at your own worth and present it well. Here are some suggestions to help you on the path to the last sell before entering the position.

Steps

1. Consider what makes you unique and valuable. Compare your skills and experience against others in the same field and write down key factors that demonstrate why you're a cut above these others. In particular, select your strengths that are outstanding and demonstrate your unique style, talent and drawcard elements. Consider:
   
   
   • your level and extent of experience in the field
   • your educational background, including ongoing education
   • your ability to draw new clients or use your contacts
   • your level of knowledge about your new employer, along with knowledge of competitors and how to take advantage of this knowledge for your new employer's sake
2. Do your research. You can't negotiate without the facts. Spend some time looking for hard facts that back up your statements. Some important things to do are:
   
   
   • Check salary guides (many exist online)
   • Talk to your mentors and former bosses
   • Talk to colleagues to see if they can point out skills that stand out for them in their experience and ask who has demonstrated these skills in the past
   • Talk with clients if relevant and get their feedback on your value
   • Look into what the company has traditionally paid employees in your role
3. Start negotiating. Always start with a figure higher than what you really want - this means knowing in advance what your bottom line is. This provides leeway to negotiate down and reach a "compromise". If you're lucky, it'll be right where you really wanted it.
4. Be realistic and reasonable. Don't expect the stars when you have just been given the moon. Accept the fact that you got the job and accept the reality that some companies can only afford so much before your "unique factor" is out of their league. Again, this is about research but it is also about intuition, general knowledge and knowing how to pitch this just right.
5. Be prepared for no. How will you react if "no" is the response? Be gracious but also try to think outside the square. Acknowledge that the employer came to the negotiating table in good faith. Take the matter further, however, by suggesting the possibility of different types of reward, such as additional leave, annual bonuses or stocks etc.

Tips

• Don't fret if you feel you are not being paid your worth. At least you have your foot in the door and the only way is up, salary included. Accept it with good grace and keep striving to be the best and to reach goals that will set you where you want to be in 5 years, 10 years etc. time.