When you're ready to negotiate, compile evidence of your achievements. Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, including any complex code you've written or projects you've led that had measurable success. Use
snippets to highlight particularly challenging problems you've solved. This tangible proof not only demonstrates your technical skills but also shows your commitment to maintaining a record of excellence. It's hard evidence that can back up your request for a performance-based raise.
###### Practice Pitch
Practicing your pitch is an essential step in preparing for a raise negotiation. Articulate clearly how your work has benefited the company, and be prepared to explain the technical aspects in a way that non-technical stakeholders can understand. For example, if you optimized website loading times, explain how that reduces bounce rates and improves SEO (Search Engine Optimization), which in turn can lead to increased revenue. Confidence in your delivery can make a significant difference in the outcome.
###### Negotiate Smart
Finally, enter the negotiation with a collaborative mindset. You're not demanding a raise; you're proposing an investment in your continued performance and growth. Be open to counteroffers and other forms of compensation, such as additional vacation days or professional development opportunities. If the company can't offer a raise immediately, propose setting specific performance targets with the promise of revisiting the raise once those targets are met. Remember, negotiation is a two-way conversation.