What do you do if you want to negotiate a higher salary or raise in business networking?

2 Choose the right time

Timing is crucial when it comes to negotiating a higher salary or raise. You want to avoid asking for more money when your employer or client is facing financial difficulties, organizational changes, or other crises. You also want to avoid asking for more money too soon or too often, as this may signal that you are dissatisfied, impatient, or disloyal. Instead, you should look for opportunities when your employer or client is in a positive mood, has acknowledged your achievements, or has expressed a need for your skills or services. You should also align your request with the regular review cycle, project completion, or contract renewal.

3 Prepare your pitch

Once you have decided to negotiate a higher salary or raise, you need to prepare your pitch carefully. You should craft a clear and concise message that highlights your value proposition, your salary or raise expectation, and your rationale. You should also anticipate and prepare for possible objections and counteroffers, and have a plan to respond to them. You should practice your pitch in advance, and rehearse it with a trusted friend, mentor, or coach. You should also choose an appropriate channel and setting to deliver your pitch, such as a face-to-face meeting, a phone call, or an email.

4 Be confident and respectful

Negotiating a higher salary or raise requires confidence and respect. You need to communicate your request with assertiveness and professionalism, and avoid using words or phrases that may undermine your credibility or authority, such as "sorry", "maybe", "just", or "I think". You also need to respect your employer or client's perspective and position, and avoid making demands, ultimatums, or threats. You should aim for a win-win outcome, where both parties feel satisfied and valued. You should also express your gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity and the relationship.

5 Handle the outcome

The outcome of your salary or raise negotiation may vary depending on the situation and the response of your employer or client. You may get what you asked for, more than what you asked for, less than what you asked for, or nothing at all. Whatever the outcome, you need to handle it with grace and professionalism. If you get what you wanted, you should thank your employer or client, and reaffirm your commitment and enthusiasm. If you get more than what you wanted, you should also acknowledge the generosity and trust of your employer or client, and deliver on your promises. If you get less than what you wanted, or nothing at all, you should not take it personally, and ask for feedback and suggestions on how to improve your chances in the future. You should also evaluate your options and decide whether to accept, decline, or renegotiate the offer.