Now’s the Time: How to Negotiate Better Terms

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Let’s be honest – talking about money is uncomfortable. Regardless of the situation, it’s a topic we often find challenging to tackle. Money is intricately woven into our lives, so why don’t we have more resources to improve our conversations about this vital subject?

In the professional world, asking for a salary increase or determining a fair rate for your work can be challenging. Questions like ‘What’s too little?’ and ‘What’s too much?’ surface. How do you even start the conversation? What should you say? How do you make your case? Let’s explore some helpful tips to make it easier for you to kickstart this dialogue.

How to approach the conversation

The crucial thing here is to understand that discussing improvements in your conditions is valid. And remember, it’s not just about money; you can also ask for a review of other aspects, like remote work, additional benefits or allowances for meals and transportation.

Planning, studying and organizing your speech is an intelligent approach. Additionally, it’s essential to approach the conversation peacefully rather than aggressively so that everyone feels comfortable.

Another important aspect is timing – and it’s essential to consider factors like your superior’s demeanor, workload and your state of mind. It’s a bit like telling your partner, ‘We need to have a conversation because things aren’t going well.’ The aim is to create a comfortable and trusting environment for effective communication.

Important factors in the conversation 

Before we get into the tips for this pivotal moment in your professional journey, there are a few things to consider:

  • Take a moment to think about why you want to have this conversation.
  • Reflect on whether your request for improvement is justified and assess your career path.
  • Organize your thoughts, rehearse your points, and gather the necessary documentation to support your arguments.
  • Remember, there’s no perfect time, so aim for a natural and comfortable setting when initiating the conversation.
  • Carefully choose the meeting location, as the environment matters.
  • Maintain your performance level; don’t let it slip during negotiation.
  • Think about the improvement you’re seeking, negotiate it and take a moment to reflect on whether it aligns with your expectations before accepting.

Tips for asking for better terms

Having understood this context, here are some crucial pointers for when you’re ready to address the situation:

  1. Show Your Worth: Demonstrate and explain why you deserve an improvement. Back up your proposal with your achievements, performance, hours invested in various projects, and their results. Consider using positive feedback from colleagues and clients to support your case.
  2. Research Comparable Positions: Find out about conditions in similar roles. Conduct preliminary research on salaries, responsibilities, and industry standards. This will help you assess whether your conditions are appropriate and if your workload aligns with your contract.
  3. Be Assertive and Propose: Take an assertive approach and present an initial proposal. Set clear boundaries, explain what you can contribute, and identify any responsibilities beyond your current conditions. Propose a first draft of the review of the conditions, avoiding unrealistic demands and dishonesty. Be sincere and open to negotiation.
  4. Express Commitment: Convey your intention to stay with the company and grow together. If you don’t have any other job offers, emphasize that your goal is not to strain the working relationship, but rather to continue contributing, growing, and achieving success together.
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Remember that this request should always be supported with solid arguments based on your professional achievements, your performance, an increased workload and your value to the company.

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