You’re about to negotiate your salary. What are some common mistakes you should avoid?

1 Not doing your research

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to go into a salary negotiation without knowing your worth and the market rate for your role and industry. If you don't have a realistic and reasonable range of expectations, you might end up asking for too little or too much, which can hurt your credibility and bargaining power. To avoid this, do your homework and research the average salary for similar positions in your area, as well as the factors that affect it, such as your skills, experience, education, and performance. You can use online tools, such as Glassdoor or PayScale, or ask your network or mentors for insights.

2 Not being prepared

Another mistake you can make is to wing it and hope for the best. Negotiating your salary requires careful preparation and planning, not only in terms of your research, but also in terms of your strategy, communication, and mindset. To avoid this, prepare a clear and concise pitch that highlights your achievements, value, and goals, and practice it in advance. Also, prepare to answer common questions, such as why you deserve a raise, what are your salary expectations, and how flexible are you. Moreover, prepare to handle objections, counteroffers, and silence, and have a backup plan in case the negotiation doesn't go your way.

3 Not being confident

Another mistake you can make is to undermine your own confidence and convey a weak or desperate impression. Negotiating your salary is not only about what you say, but also how you say it. If you are not confident in your skills, value, and worth, you might end up settling for less than you deserve, or giving away too much information or leverage. To avoid this, be confident and assertive, but not arrogant or aggressive. Use positive and confident language, such as "I believe", "I have", or "I can", rather than "I think", "I hope", or "I might". Also, avoid apologizing, hesitating, or self-deprecating, and maintain eye contact, a calm voice, and a friendly smile.

4 Not being flexible

Another mistake you can make is to be too rigid or unrealistic in your expectations and demands. Negotiating your salary is not a one-sided or win-lose situation, but a collaborative and win-win process. If you are too stubborn or inflexible, you might end up alienating or offending your employer, or missing out on other benefits or opportunities. To avoid this, be flexible and open-minded, but not too eager or willing to compromise. Consider the whole compensation package, not just the salary, and look for other perks or incentives, such as bonuses, stock options, vacation days, or training. Also, consider the employer's perspective, constraints, and priorities, and look for ways to create value and mutual satisfaction.

5 Not following up

Another mistake you can make is to assume that the negotiation is over once you reach an agreement or receive an offer. Negotiating your salary is not a one-time or final event, but a continuous and ongoing relationship. If you don't follow up and confirm the details, you might end up with misunderstandings, disputes, or disappointments. To avoid this, follow up and thank your employer for the opportunity and the offer, and restate your interest and enthusiasm. Also, ask for a written confirmation of the terms and conditions, and review it carefully before signing it. Moreover, follow up and deliver on your promises, and keep track of your performance and accomplishments, so that you can prepare for your next negotiation.

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?