If you’ve never negotiated a job offer or salary, there’s a strong chance you’re leaving a lot of money on the table.
We understand that it’s easy to say “yes” right away when you’re offered a new role. After all, by the time an offer comes in, you’re likely eager for your job hunt to be over. But, according to Princess Nwankwo, a top talent acquisition specialist at Staffaro — skipping the negotiation process is one of the worst things you can do for your career.
Your starting salary sets the foundation for all your future raises and bonuses, so if you don’t negotiate that initial offer, it can have lasting consequences.
Keep reading for practical tips on how to define what you want from a job, the right time and way to ask for it, and how to handle things if a negotiation doesn’t go in your favor — all from an HR professional.
1. Do Your Research
Before entering any salary negotiation, preparation is key. Don’t just pull numbers out of thin air — come armed with data to support your case. Online platforms like Glassdoor and PayScale, are great resources for finding out what others in similar roles are earning. “But even more important is talking to people in your network — your friends, colleagues, mentors, and anyone who might have insight into your industry and geographic region” says Nwankwo. “This can give you context and a realistic salary range for your position”.
When researching, consider the total compensation package, not just the base salary. Benefits like health insurance, pension plans, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements can be just as important as the amount on your paycheck. By considering the whole package, you can make a more informed decision about what you’re willing to accept.
2. But First, Don’t Make It All About the Money
While the monetary benefit of a potential role is important, let your potential employer know that that’s not all you’re concerned about. Nwankwo explains, “As a recruiter, I’m far more likely to negotiate salaries with candidates who express a genuine desire to be part of the company’s journey rather than candidates who look like they’re looking for a quick job change. It’s not only about what you can do for the company today, but how your skills and ambitions align with its long-term goals”.
“During the interview, ask thoughtful questions that go beyond your immediate role and touch on the company’s larger goals and vision. Questions like, “What projects are critical to the success of the company in the next 6–12 months?” or “What does the company aim to achieve in the next 3–5 years with (specific project)? This set you apart as a candidate worth investing in”.
3. If You’re Unsure about the Offered Pay, Don’t Agree on the Spot
Once you receive an offer, it’s tempting to immediately accept, especially if you’re excited about the position and ready for the job hunt to be over. But don’t rush into anything. If the salary or overall package isn’t exactly what you were hoping for, take a step back.
“Politely ask for 48 to 72 hours to review the offer before giving your final answer”, Nwankwo advises. “This gives you time to think it over, conduct any additional research, and weigh the pros and cons of the offer. It also shows the employer that you are serious about the opportunity and willing to thoughtfully consider your next steps”.
What if I already have a job and I want to negotiate a higher salary with my current company?
4. If You Already Have a Job, Build a Stellar Track Record
If you’re negotiating a raise in your current position, your strongest bargaining chip is the track record you’ve built. Nwankwo notes that before you ask for more money, make sure you’ve established yourself as a valuable contributor to the team. “Have clear, quantifiable results that show how your work has benefited the company. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements. Did you manage a project that increased revenue or efficiency? Did you take on additional responsibilities beyond your initial job description? Numbers can be especially persuasive in salary discussions, so if you can tie your accomplishments to measurable results, you’re more likely to make a strong case for a raise”, she says.
5. Schedule a Conversation and Be Specific
Timing and format are critical when asking for a raise. “Read the room and pick a time when your manager (or whoever you’ll be having a conversation with) is likely to be receptive”, Nwankwo advises.
During the conversation, be specific about what you’ve accomplished and how your work has contributed to the company’s success. “For example, you might say, “Over the last six months, I’ve managed a project that saved the company 15% in operational costs,” or “I’ve taken on additional responsibilities that have directly contributed to the progress of the team”, says Nwankwo. Using numbers and specific examples can make your argument more compelling.
6. Move Forward, Whatever the Outcome
Once the negotiation process comes to an end, be prepared to move forward, no matter the result. If the answer is no, ask your employer for feedback. Understanding why you didn’t receive the raise can help you note areas for improvement and set goals for the future. If the salary still falls below your expectations, ask to discuss the total compensation package and other possible perks.
If you still believe you deserve more compensation but the company can’t meet your expectations, you might need to decide whether to stay or move on. Nwankwo points out, “At the end of the day, negotiating your salary is about ensuring that you are compensated fairly for the value you bring to the table. If you prepare well, advocate for yourself with confidence, and are willing to walk away if necessary, you’ll be in a much stronger position to negotiate a salary that reflects your worth”.
