What do you do if your fundraising efforts are met with objections and you want to negotiate a higher salary?

2 Choose the right time

Timing is crucial when it comes to negotiating a salary. You want to avoid asking for a raise when your organization is facing budget cuts, financial difficulties, or donor attrition. Instead, you want to seize the opportunity when your organization is doing well, or when you have just completed a successful project, campaign, or event. You also want to schedule a meeting with your boss in advance, and let them know the purpose and agenda of the discussion. This will show respect and professionalism, and give them time to prepare.

3 Focus on mutual benefits

One of the most common objections that you may face when asking for a raise is that your organization cannot afford it, or that it will affect its mission or reputation. To overcome this, you need to focus on the mutual benefits of paying you more, rather than on your personal needs or desires. Explain how your skills, expertise, and network can help your organization achieve its goals, solve its challenges, and grow its donor base. Emphasize how your raise will increase your motivation, performance, and loyalty, and reduce the risk of turnover or burnout.

4 Handle objections with empathy

Another common objection that you may encounter is that your boss does not agree with your assessment of your value or impact. They may question your data, compare you with your peers, or point out your weaknesses or mistakes. To handle this, you need to listen carefully, acknowledge their perspective, and respond with empathy. Avoid getting defensive, emotional, or aggressive, as this will damage your rapport and trust. Instead, use facts, examples, and testimonials to support your claims, and ask for feedback and suggestions on how to improve.

6 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?