You’re up for a promotion. What are the most important things to consider when negotiating?

1 Know your value

The first step to negotiating is to know your value. This means researching the market rate for your role, industry, and location. You can use online tools, salary surveys, or network with other account managers to get a sense of what you’re worth. You also need to quantify your achievements and contributions to the company and your clients. How have you helped increase revenue, retention, satisfaction, or efficiency? How have you demonstrated leadership, creativity, or problem-solving skills? How have you improved your skills or taken on more responsibilities? These are the factors that will justify your ask and show your employer that you’re an asset.

2 Set your goals

The next step is to set your goals. This means deciding what you want to achieve from the negotiation and what you’re willing to compromise on. Your goals should be realistic, but also ambitious. You don’t want to sell yourself short, but you also don’t want to ask for something unreasonable or unrealistic. Think about your salary range, your benefits, your incentives, and your career development opportunities. What are the most important aspects for you? What are the minimum and maximum amounts you would accept? What are the trade-offs you would consider? Having a clear idea of your goals will help you communicate them effectively and confidently.

3 Plan your strategy

The third step is to plan your strategy. This means preparing for the negotiation process and anticipating the possible scenarios and outcomes. You need to think about how, when, and with whom you will negotiate. How will you initiate the conversation? When is the best time to bring it up? Who will be involved in the decision-making process? You also need to think about how you will present your case, what evidence you will use, and what objections you will face. How will you highlight your value and achievements? What data or examples will you use to support your ask? How will you handle the counter-offers, rejections, or delays? Having a strategy will help you stay focused and flexible.

4 Negotiate with tact

The fourth step is to negotiate with tact. This means conducting the negotiation in a professional, respectful, and positive manner. You want to avoid being too aggressive, too passive, or too emotional. You want to be assertive, confident, and rational. You also want to maintain a good rapport with your employer and your clients. You don’t want to damage your reputation or your relationship by being disrespectful, dishonest, or demanding. You want to show that you value the company and the clients, and that you’re willing to work together to find a mutually beneficial solution. Negotiating with tact will help you achieve your goals and preserve your integrity.

5 Review the offer

The fifth step is to review the offer. This means evaluating the offer you receive and deciding whether to accept, reject, or renegotiate it. You need to compare the offer with your goals and expectations, and consider the pros and cons of each option. You also need to think about the long-term implications of the offer, and how it will affect your career progression, your satisfaction, and your work-life balance. You don’t have to accept or reject the offer on the spot. You can ask for some time to think it over, or to consult with your family, your mentor, or your peers. Reviewing the offer will help you make an informed and confident decision.

6 Follow up

The sixth step is to follow up. This means confirming the agreement and expressing your gratitude and enthusiasm. You need to make sure that the offer is in writing, and that you understand and agree with the terms and conditions. You also need to thank your employer and your clients for the opportunity and the recognition, and show your commitment and excitement for the new role. You can also use this opportunity to ask for feedback, guidance, or support for your transition and your future goals. Following up will help you close the deal and start your new role on a positive note.

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?