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Mastering the Art of Negotiation in Your Career
Finding a job that offers the perfect balance of salary, benefits, and fulfillment can often feel elusive. Instead, many of us find ourselves having to negotiate for raises, promotions, and other essential adjustments that align with our career aspirations.
While some individuals may possess a natural aptitude for negotiation—making them formidable opponents at the bargaining table—others develop these skills through experience. Then there are those who approach negotiations with hesitance, remaining quiet and accepting their situations rather than advocating for their needs.
Asking for what you want can indeed be daunting. The fear of backlash or the unsettling possibility of receiving a “no” often holds us back. These apprehensions can significantly hinder career satisfaction and personal fulfillment, especially when considering that the average person devotes approximately 90,000 hours or about a decade of their life to work. Clearly, everyone deserves to experience joy and fulfillment in their professional roles.
Mark Twain once remarked that “the secret of making progress is to get started.” With that in mind, how can those reluctant to negotiate overcome this significant barrier to career advancement? Here are several strategies that can empower individuals to negotiate effectively, whether for a new job or within their current position.
Overcome Overthinking
Many professionals may not realize that a significant majority of managers—about 70% according to a 2019 Robert Half survey—anticipate that candidates will negotiate offers. While it is not necessary to negotiate every proposal, you should confidently advocate for a salary or terms that reflect your worth, especially if you feel that your skills and contributions warrant a higher compensation.
If you’re negotiating with your current employer, be prepared for the possibility that your request might come as a surprise. Assess your reasons for wanting to negotiate: Are they valid? Have you demonstrated your value? If your answers affirm your stance, it’s time to proceed without reservation.
Communicate Your Aspirations Clearly
In your career, you hold the reins. Don’t wait for your manager to identify new opportunities for you. Leaders have numerous responsibilities and may not always prioritize their employees’ growth. Make your career ambitions known and articulate your desire for a promotion or raise. Maintaining documentation of your achievements can help you build a case for your request and ensure you are remembered for your contributions.
Understand the Context
Recognizing your employer’s needs alongside your own is crucial in the negotiation process. If you have a job offer, the terms may be clearer, but when negotiating with your current employer, timing can be critical. Avoid presenting requests during unfavorable times, such as when budget cuts are a concern. Instead, take advantage of moments when you can effectively advocate for yourself—like after you’ve taken on new responsibilities or returned from a leave of absence.
Utilize Your Unique Strengths
For some individuals, direct confrontation may be challenging. In such cases, negotiating through email can provide a more comfortable approach. If you receive an offer in person, consider expressing gratitude for the opportunity and asking for time to review it. This tactic not only buys you time but also allows for thoughtful consideration of the proposal.
Conduct Thorough Research
Prior to engaging in negotiations, arm yourself with knowledge about salary benchmarks for your role and industry. Resources like CUPA-HR’s research center offer valuable salary data and insights that can empower you during negotiations. Additionally, reaching out to peers can yield helpful information about current trends and expectations in your field.
Conquer Your Fears
It’s common to worry about the possibility of losing an offer if you negotiate, yet this fear can prevent you from voicing essential needs, whether they pertain to salary, work conditions, or other factors necessary for your professional wellbeing. As Dr. Hayley A. Haywood notes, rigid thinking often undermines negotiation efforts. Both parties have desirable outcomes, and compromise is key. Remember that walking away from an opportunity that does not align with your needs is a valid choice and can lead to better-fitting opportunities in the future.
Conclusion
Negotiating successfully can be a challenging endeavor, even for those who are typically confident. However, the ability to advocate for your needs is an integral part of building a successful career. Embracing the negotiation process with a positive mindset and strategic preparation can lead to worthwhile advancements in your professional journey.
Source
www.higheredjobs.com