Hey, hope you are keeping well this winter. Today's article is based on my experience interacting with our community members. The topic is Salary Negotiation. I'm sure most of you have experienced this if you have already landed your first job or even internship.

Negotiating salary for an entry-level position can be quite challenging, especially when you don't know what to say. Having right conversation helps you communicate your value effectively and increases your chances of landing a better offer.

Here are five conversation tips you can apply during your salary negotiations:

1. Show Your Enthusiasm and Interest

First things first, start by showing your excitement about the role and the company. This creates a positive tone for the negotiation and the overall conversation.

“Thank you so much for the offer! I’m really excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to [specific project or goal*]”

(*Research about the company through their social activity, founder's social pages, use their products, check website traffic etc. The aim is to understand what they are currently trying to achieve so that you can align your mission towards that. Having this trait is highly impressive and shows your right intention)

2. Talk About Salary Ranges

When asked about salary expectations, it’s strategic to turn the question back to the employer to understand their budget.

“I’d love to learn more about the responsibilities of this role. Could you share what salary range you have thought for this position?”

"What would be your objective with respect to hiring for this role?"

"What would you like to achieve in the next 12 months by hiring for this role"

3. Show Your Research

Don't feel shy to show that you’ve done your homework on market salaries. This helps you in negotiation when it comes to salary. You can use tools like GlassDoor, Indeed, AmbitionBox

“Based on my research and what I’ve seen for similar roles in this industry, I was expecting a salary in the range of [insert range].?

4. Justify Your Request with Value

When discussing salary, put your request to specific skills or experiences that add value to the company. This is something only you are aware of. Or take advice from any senior folks you have worked it. A third person candid feedback will always help you

“I believe my background in [mention relevant experience or skills] positions me well to contribute effectively. Given this, would you consider adjusting the starting salary to [insert desired amount]?”

"Based on my proof of work I have shared, would you like to reconsider your salary to something around [insert range]?

[Related: Proof of Work is the New Age Resume]

5. Ask for Other Benefits

If you fail to negotiate the salary, you can also discuss the other forms of compensation with the company.

“I understand if there are budget constraints on salary. Would it be possible to discuss additional benefits, such as <add your ask here>”.

Few examples of what additional benefits:

🧁 Flexible working hours

📚 Monthly Book Allowance

🏖️ Additional vacation days

🛡 Health Insurance

🧠 Therapy Coverage

🏏 Sports Club Membership

🍽 5-Star Family Meals

💪 Fitness/Gym/Yoga Membership

💻 Internet Allowance

🤝 Profit Sharing

There are more such additional benefits you can search on the internet for sure. But as I always suggest: do your own research.

☠️ Be generous with your ask. Please don't just say you need everything on the list

So lastly, using these tips not only helps you can navigate the interview conversation more smoothly but also positions you as a confident candidate who knows their worth. Please remember - always be polite and professional throughout the negotiation process, as building a good rapport with your employers is important for long-term success.

I will see you again on the next one

About Fueler:

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

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