How to Secure the…How to Secure the Compensation…

How to Secure the Compensation You Deserve

We are fortunate to work in an era of growing pay transparency and progress toward pay equity. Many states even protect candidates from having their previous salaries used to justify lower offers. However, negotiating is still an essential part of the hiring process—it’s about more than just salary. PTO, start dates, bonuses, and other benefits are often on the table, too.

If you have reached the salary negotiation stage, congratulations! You have impressed the hiring team (and hopefully you mirror this excitement!), and now it is time to confidently secure the compensation you deserve. Follow these tips to approach your negotiation with preparation and poise.

1. Do Your Research
   
   Knowledge is power in any negotiation. Research the market rate for your role in your industry, considering experience level, location, and responsibilities. Use resources like Glassdoor, PayScale, LinkedIn, and job boards to understand what similar positions are paying.
   
   Pro tip: When reviewing job postings, focus on the details of the role—not just the title. Responsibilities and experience requirements can vary widely, even for the same job title.
   
   
2. Ask About the Budget with Tact
   
   When asked about your salary expectations early in the process, redirect the question with confidence:
   
   "I’d love to understand more about the role and its responsibilities first. Could you share the budgeted range for this position?"
   
   This approach helps you avoid undervaluing yourself and sets a foundation for open dialogue. Once you know the range, ask what is required to earn the top end:
   
   "What skills or experiences would justify reaching the higher end of that range?"
   
   This shows initiative and aligns your goals with the employer’s expectations.
   
   
3. Know Your Worth
   
   When making a counteroffer, back it up with specific examples of your value. Highlight accomplishments, unique skills, and measurable results from previous roles. For example:
   
   "In my last role, I led a project that increased revenue by 20%, demonstrating my ability to deliver results that impact the bottom line. Based on this experience, I believe a salary in the range of [insert range] is appropriate."
   
   The more tangible your examples, the easier it is to justify your worth.
   
   Pro tip: Always express your genuine enthusiasm for the company and the opportunity during a negotiation. This keeps the conversation positive and reinforces your interest to the hiring team.
   
   
4. Consider the Full Compensation Package (Not Just the Salary)
   
   Salary is just one piece of the pie. Other factors, like bonuses, stock options, health benefits, PTO, flexible work arrangements, and retirement contributions, all contribute to your overall satisfaction. If the company cannot meet your salary expectations, look for other areas to negotiate. For example:
   
   - Additional vacation days
   - Flexible scheduling or remote work options
   - Professional development opportunities
   - Company vehicle
   - Onsite daycare or gym
   - Breakfast and coffee bar (It all adds up!)
   
   Keep an open mind and remember that some companies have strict pay structures they cannot adjust. In those cases, seek alternative perks that add value to you and your personal situation.
   
   
5. Be Confident, But Courteous, and Practice
   
   Confidence is crucial but so is maintaining a positive and respectful tone. Approach the conversation as a collaboration, aiming for a win-win outcome. When presenting your case, use phrases like:
   
   "Based on my research and experience, I was hoping for a salary in the range of [insert range]. Is there flexibility to move closer to that?"
   
   OR: 
   
   "Given my background and the current market, I believe a salary of [realistic number] would be fair. Could we explore that possibility?"
   
   These statements open the door for dialogue while clearly expressing your expectations.
   
   Yes, it is completely acceptable (and often encouraged) to PRACTICE this conversation with one of your trusted humans. Practicing will help you clearly and professionally deliver your message. It is not like we get to have these conversations every day!

Final Thoughts:

Negotiating your salary can feel intimidating, but it is an essential step in ensuring you are compensated fairly. By doing your research, preparing your case, and considering the full compensation package, you will be equipped to advocate for your worth confidently.

Remember, if the company has offered you the job, they want to make it work. Approach the conversation with the same enthusiasm, confidence, collaboration, fact-based information, and a clear understanding of your value. You’ve got this!