What do you do if you want to ace your salary negotiation meeting?

Remember to have a look at your expectations realistically. Don't just prepare to negotiate with your value. Be ready to quantify your expectations. What will be the ideal hike you are expected to get in the current company based on your excellent performance? Why is it important for you to be compensated more (tangible achievements, dollar saves or revenue generated), additional competence beyond the requirements of your aspirational job that can make your new company utilize you more on multiple roles etc

To prepare effectively for salary negotiations, practice your pitch with a mentor or a trusted colleague. This rehearsal can help you refine your delivery and adjust your arguments based on feedback. Consider possible questions or objections that the employer might raise and prepare your responses in advance. Additionally, keep a positive, open-minded attitude during negotiations. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and be prepared to discuss alternative forms of compensation, such as bonuses, additional benefits, or flexible working conditions, if the salary offered isn't quite what you were hoping for.

Before you do anything research the market. Many recruitment businesses produce salary surveys nowadays where the information is usually quite accurate as it is compiled by conversations consultants are having with their candidate pools. Beyond that, Always keep a log of your achievements from day one in your role. If you haven't started yet, begin now. We tend to forget when we've gone above and beyond or added significant value, and it often gets overlooked. By tracking your achievements, you'll have a long list of undeniable evidence when the time comes to request a pay raise.

One time during an interview, before I went into a salary discussion, I spent time looking up how much others in similar jobs were paid, just like when you check the price of a toy before you buy it. This helped me understand what was a fair amount to ask for. I learned that knowing what others earn for similar work can make you more confident in asking for what you deserve.

Be upfront in your request, let your boss know what you are wanting to speak about, They might need some time to plan a conversation with their bosses or HR to discuss what pay rises they can justify in advance of your conversation. Present your case based on achievements and value you have brought. If the answer is 'No' to your request, it might be time to look at alternative options in the market.