What do you do if you want professional development opportunities included in your salary package?

1 Assess Needs

Before entering salary negotiations, thoroughly assess your professional development needs. Identify the skills and knowledge you need to advance in your career and research relevant training programs or courses. This preparation will allow you to present a clear case for why these opportunities are not just perks but essential components for your growth and the company's success. Articulate how each opportunity aligns with your role and contributes to the organization's objectives. By demonstrating the mutual benefits, you're more likely to persuade your employer to include professional development in your salary package.

2 Market Research

Conduct market research to understand what professional development benefits are standard in your industry. This information will give you a benchmark and strengthen your position during negotiations. Look at job listings, industry forums, and professional networks to gather data on what others in similar roles and at similar career stages are receiving. This knowledge equips you with the evidence needed to make a compelling argument for including professional development in your salary package.

3 Present Proposal

When presenting your proposal for professional development inclusion, be specific and strategic. Outline the programs or courses you're interested in and explain how they will directly impact your performance and productivity. Highlight the long-term value you'll bring to the company with these additional skills. Your goal is to show that investing in your professional growth is an investment in the company's future, thereby making it a financially sound decision for your employer.

4 Negotiate Terms

Negotiating the terms for professional development in your salary package can be delicate. If the employer is hesitant, suggest alternatives such as a co-investment approach where costs are shared, or propose a trial period for the first year. Be prepared to discuss how you'll manage your time so that your training does not interfere with work responsibilities. Transparent communication about expectations and commitments is key to reaching an agreement that satisfies both parties.

5 Leverage Skills

Leverage the skills you already possess to make a case for why additional training will complement and enhance your current capabilities. Illustrate with examples from past experiences where professional development has positively impacted your work. By connecting the dots between past successes and future potential, you can make a persuasive argument for why your employer should invest in your continued learning.

6 Follow Up

After the negotiation, it's important to follow up on the discussion. If an agreement was reached, ensure that the terms are documented in your contract or written agreement. If the negotiation is still ongoing or if you received a tentative yes, maintain a dialogue to keep the topic at the forefront. Following up demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and keeps the conversation open for future opportunities.

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?