Here's how you can gather data to support your salary negotiation in Information Architecture.

1 Know Your Worth

Understanding your market value is a fundamental step in salary negotiation. Begin by researching the average salary for Information Architects with your level of experience and in your geographical location. While job boards and career websites provide a general idea, consider reaching out to professional organizations related to Information Architecture for more detailed insights. Remember, factors such as specialized skills, certifications, and the complexity of projects you've handled can increase your market value, so take stock of these as well.

2 Industry Trends

Keeping abreast of industry trends is essential when negotiating your salary. In Information Architecture, this means being aware of how emerging technologies or changes in user experience (UX) design principles might affect demand for your skills. If there's a growing trend that aligns with your expertise, such as voice user interface design or artificial intelligence in UX, leverage this information to justify a higher salary. Show that your skills are not just current but also future-proof.

3 Benchmark Roles

To further support your case, compare your role and responsibilities with similar positions within the industry. Look at job listings for Information Architects and note the requirements and responsibilities listed. If your current role involves additional duties or skills that are above the typical expectations, this can be a strong argument for a higher salary. Highlighting the breadth and depth of your responsibilities demonstrates the unique value you bring to the position.

4 Performance Metrics

Quantifying your contributions through performance metrics can significantly strengthen your negotiation stance. As an Information Architect, consider the impact of your work on user experience, website traffic, or customer satisfaction. If you've implemented a new structure that resulted in improved metrics, document these achievements. Concrete examples of how your work has positively influenced the business are persuasive evidence of your worth.

5 Peer Consultation

Engaging with peers can provide valuable insights into salary standards and negotiation strategies. Reach out to other Information Architects through networking events, online forums, or professional groups. Discussing with peers can give you a sense of whether your salary expectations are reasonable and what arguments have been effective in their own negotiations. Peer consultation also helps in understanding the broader market and where you stand within it.

6 Plan Your Approach

Finally, planning your negotiation strategy is vital. Consider all the data you've gathered and formulate a clear and concise argument for why you deserve a higher salary. Practice delivering this argument and anticipate potential counterarguments from your employer. Being prepared with responses and maintaining a professional demeanor throughout the negotiation process will help you present your case more effectively and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

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?