How to Negotiate Salary
By Career counseling

Salary negotiation is a crucial part of the job search process. Start by researching industry standards and assessing your skills and experience. Prepare your case by listing your qualifications and specific achievements. During the negotiation, let the employer make the first offer, use a salary range, and justify your request with industry data. Be prepared for counteroffers and consider the entire compensation package, including benefits. Always get the offer in writing and take time to evaluate it before making a decision.


1. Research and Preparation

1. Know Your Worth

  • Research industry standards for your role and experience level. Use resources like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary to gather data.

2. Assess Your Skills and Experience

  • List your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments that add value to the role to justify your desired salary.

3. Consider the Entire Compensation Package

  • Factor in benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.

4. Prepare Your Case

  • Write down key points that demonstrate your value to the employer, including specific achievements and their impact.

2. During the Negotiation

1. Let the Employer Make the First Offer

  • Allow the employer to present an initial offer, providing a starting point for negotiations.

2. Be Confident and Professional

  • Approach the negotiation with confidence and professionalism, clearly articulating your salary expectations based on your research and qualifications.

3. Use a Range

  • Provide a salary range rather than a specific number, ensuring the lower end is acceptable to you. For example, “Based on my research and experience, I’m looking for a salary between ÂŁ45,000 and ÂŁ55,000.”

4. Justify Your Request

  • Explain why you believe your desired salary is fair, referencing industry standards, your skills, and contributions to previous employers.

5. Be Prepared for Counteroffers

  • Be ready to discuss and potentially compromise, exploring other compensatory benefits if the employer cannot meet your desired salary.

3. After the Negotiation

1. Get the Offer in Writing

  • Request a formal offer letter outlining the salary and any other negotiated benefits.

2. Be Gracious

  • Express gratitude for the opportunity and the employer’s consideration, regardless of the outcome.

3. Evaluate the Offer

  • Take time to carefully evaluate the final offer, considering how it aligns with your financial needs, career goals, and personal values before making a decision.