What do you do if your desired salary or raise is affected by a culture change?

1 Assess Impact

When a culture change occurs, the first step is to assess how it directly impacts your salary or raise prospects. Analyze the new cultural norms, values, or policies introduced and determine how they align with your role and compensation expectations. For example, if the company now values teamwork over individual performance, consider how your contributions to team success can be highlighted. Understanding the new culture allows you to tailor your approach when discussing compensation.

2 Open Dialogue

It's important to maintain an open dialogue with your manager or HR representative. Express your concerns regarding the culture shift and its effect on your salary or raise. Be clear about your expectations and the value you bring to the company. A candid conversation can help bridge any gaps between your compensation goals and the company's new direction. Moreover, it can reveal opportunities for negotiation that align with the cultural changes.

3 Adjust Goals

Sometimes, a culture change may require you to adjust your salary or raise goals. This doesn't mean settling for less but rather re-evaluating what's realistic and achievable within the new company context. Reflect on your priorities and consider if there are other forms of compensation or benefits that could be equally valuable, such as flexible work arrangements or professional development opportunities.

4 Research Norms

In light of culture change, research industry norms for salaries and raises. This information will arm you with data to support your case during negotiations. Understanding the market standards can also help you set realistic expectations and provide a benchmark for discussions. If the culture change involves a shift towards more transparency in compensation, use this to your advantage by discussing industry standards openly.

5 Leverage Skills

Your unique skills and experiences are powerful leverage points in any salary or raise negotiation. Highlight how these align with the new cultural values and how they contribute to the company's success. If the culture change emphasizes innovation, for instance, showcase your innovative projects or ideas. Demonstrating your adaptability and alignment with the culture change can strengthen your position in negotiations.

6 Future Planning

Consider the long-term implications of the culture change on your career trajectory and compensation. Engage in future planning by setting new performance goals that align with the changed culture and discussing them with your employer. This proactive approach shows your commitment to growth and adaptability, which can positively influence future salary or raise discussions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?