You’re about to accept a new job offer. How can you ensure you’re being paid what you’re worth?

1 Know your worth

Before you apply for a job or accept an offer, you need to have a clear idea of what your skills, experience, and qualifications are worth in the market. You can use online tools, such as salary calculators, surveys, and reports, to find the average and range of salaries for project managers in your industry, location, and level of seniority. You can also network with other project managers, mentors, or recruiters to get insights and feedback on your expectations and goals.

2 Do your homework

Once you have a target salary range in mind, you need to do some research on the specific company and position you’re applying for or considering. You can look at the company’s website, social media, and reviews to learn more about its culture, values, and reputation. You can also check out the job description, requirements, and responsibilities to understand the scope and expectations of the role. You can use this information to tailor your resume, cover letter, and interview responses to highlight your fit and value for the company and the position.

3 Be confident and flexible

When it comes to negotiating your salary and benefits, you need to be confident and flexible. You need to be confident in your skills, experience, and achievements, and be able to articulate them clearly and convincingly. You also need to be flexible and open to different options and scenarios, such as bonuses, incentives, equity, or perks. You should avoid giving a specific number or accepting the first offer without discussion. Instead, you should aim for a win-win situation where both you and the employer feel satisfied and respected.

4 Ask the right questions

One of the best ways to negotiate your salary and benefits is to ask the right questions. You should ask questions that show your interest, curiosity, and enthusiasm for the job and the company. You should also ask questions that help you understand the employer’s perspective, needs, and constraints. For example, you can ask about the budget, the timeline, the performance indicators, or the benchmarks for the position. You can also ask about the benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plan, vacation time, or professional development opportunities.

6 Follow up professionally

Finally, you should follow up professionally after the negotiation. You should thank the employer for their time, interest, and offer, and confirm your acceptance or rejection in writing. You should also review the contract or agreement carefully, and ask for clarification or modification if necessary. You should also keep in touch with the employer until you start your job, and update them on any changes or issues that may arise. You should also maintain a positive and respectful relationship with the employer, and look forward to your new role as a project manager.

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?