Hier ist der Grund, warum deine letzte IT-Gehaltsverhandlung fehlgeschlagen ist
It's difficult to negotiate a higher IT salary - be it for a new job or for your current job. And it can be even more intimidating if your last attempt was unsuccessful. Understanding how to negotiate and learning from your past negotiation experience is key to getting what you want next time. Here are some reasons why things might not have gone well and some ways to improve your next salary negotiation.
You went in without knowing what you actually want
It's sometimes difficult to find salary benchmarks for the exact role you're negotiating for. However, it is important to have an idea of what you want to get out of the negotiation - and perhaps more importantly, to have a backing for your argument. It's too simplistic to just ask for more money, but to be successful, you often need to prepare a solid explanation of why you should deserve what you asked for.
First, do some research to find salary benchmarks for the role, sector, and region you work in. Include there any additional training or qualifications you have to earn more. Add qualitative insights by talking to friends or professional contacts at similar companies.
You revealed your cards too early
Having a solid idea of what you want out of your negotiation doesn't mean walking in the room and laying that number on the table. Rather, it is recommended to avoid doing so as disclosing these details can give your counterparty the upper hand. For example, if you tell the hiring manager that you would accept at least X, they will know there is no reason to offer more than that - even if they had previously agreed to it.
Instead, use tactics to optimize your counterparty’s maximum willingness to pay. Technically, this is the "reserve value" or the minimum/maximum someone would be willing to accept/pay in a negotiation. While you almost never disclose your reserve value (the minimum value you would accept) right away, you may be able to glean some details about the company's maximum value as the conversation progresses. For example, ask the hiring manager for their opinion on the typical pay for the role, for more details on the company's compensation philosophy, or for the flexibility they generally have with new offers.
You didn't suggest any alternative options
Even if the company doesn't have room for salary increases, keep in mind that there are a number of other factors that may offset non-ideal wages. In a startup, equity has to be considered, which - depending on your confidence in the company's success - can be a valuable trade-off. Many public companies also offer stock awards. So keep in mind that this is a potential puzzle piece.
In addition, you should throw in some ideas about other benefits that could sweeten the deal if you don't have the salary you want. You can suggest working from home a few days a week, receive a commuting allowance, or introduce a performance-based bonus. Also, consider if there are any compromises you'd like to make in exchange for a more compelling work experience.
Prepare, practice and propose
After you've prepared and practiced your performance, go to your next negotiation - and be ready to suggest alternatives if things don't go your way. In the end, the company should also want you to be happy with the result. So take the time to prepare yourself for the best result - so that in the end you and the company are equally happy.
