Salary negotiations can feel like a game of chess—one wrong move, and it may seem like all is lost. But with some strategy and preparation, you can boost your chances of landing a deal that reflects your worth.
- Do your homework
This is where you start. Walking into a negotiation without knowing the salary range for your role is like showing up to a test without studying. Research helps you know what’s reasonable and gives you the leverage to ask confidently for what you deserve.
Begin by searching industry-specific sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, or PayScale, which provide insights into average salaries by position, location, and experience level. For instance, if you’re a software engineer with three years of experience in Rwanda, you can narrow down the range by searching for similar profiles and companies.
When you go into the negotiation, mention these figures. Say something like, “Based on industry standards and comparable positions, the market average for this role is around X Frw.” Anchoring your request in actual data shows you’re prepared and knowledgeable, and it gives your employer something tangible to consider.
- Highlight your unique value
Think of your value as the “special sauce” you bring to the table. Sure, plenty of candidates can do the job, but can they do it like you? Probably not. A survey by LinkedIn showed that 61% of hiring managers are more likely to approve a salary bump for candidates who can clearly articulate their unique contributions. This is especially important if you’re asking for a raise, as you’ll need to justify why your employer should invest more in you.
Before the negotiation, make a list of what you’ve accomplished in your role. Think about the times you’ve saved the company money, increased productivity, or achieved notable results. For example, “I led a project that increased our revenues by 5%,” or “I initiated an idea that increased our visibility by 15% on social media.” Numbers speak louder than general statements, so use them whenever possible.
Consider tying your achievements directly to the company’s goals. If your company values innovation, emphasize any creative solutions you’ve brought forward. If they’re focused on customer satisfaction, highlight positive client feedback you received. Tailoring your pitch in this way will make it clear why you’re worth the salary bump.
- Be ready to counteroffer—But not too soon
There’s an art to timing, and in negotiations, patience can be your best friend. If your employer gives you an initial offer, take a breath before responding. Thank them, express your appreciation, and then take some time to evaluate. You don’t need to say yes or no immediately. For example, “Thank you for the offer! I’m very excited about this opportunity. Can I have a day or two to review the details?”
When you’re ready to counter, don’t just throw out a higher number. Add context. For instance, if the offer is x and you were hoping for Y based on your research, explain why: “Given my background and the responsibilities outlined, I believe a salary of Y would better reflect my contribution to the role.”
Remember, negotiations are a two-way street. Be open to different forms of compensation. If a higher salary isn’t on the table, can they offer performance bonuses, additional vacation days, or professional development opportunities? Flexibility on your end shows that you’re solution-oriented, which is a quality employers value.
