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Discussing money can make many people feel uncomfortable. It’s never easy to raise the salary topic when you’re interviewing for a new role, but it’s important that you do. In fact, some employers expect you to.
Asking the salary question feels like walking a tightrope, and balance is key when engaging in this topic. You want to know if the job pays what you’re worth, but you don’t want to seem like you’re only in it for the money.
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According to Harvard Business Review, here’s how you navigate the topic.
The first call is often a great moment to gauge alignment between you and the company. But the truth is, the “perfect” time to bring up the salary topic can feel like a moving target!
It honestly depends on the flow of the conversation and the stage of the interview process.
With this roadmap from Harvard Business Review, you can be better equipped to decide when to drop the compensation question:
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Timing matters
Avoid bringing it up too soon, like at the beginning of the conversation. Instead, let the interviewer get to know your skills and enthusiasm first. Of course, money is a key contributor to the career decisions you’ll make. But timing is key.
Know the current salary trends in your industry
You should enter the negotiation fully informed. Research current trends for your industry, role, and experience level.
Know your baseline salary
This is the number under which you’d walk away from a company. When the company isn’t willing to compensate you according to the industry trends, then it’s probably not one where you’ll be happy in the long run.
Always be honest
Stating the specific number or range you want will help figure out if you and your potential employer are on the same page. Never be deceptive about current salary, competing offers or the skills you bring to the role to secure more money. The salary reflects the value you bring to the role and serves as a benchmark of your performance.
Be prepared to negotiate
When you are eager to take a role but can’t reach an agreement on salary, then negotiations begin. Consider how you can augment your remuneration with employee benefits like extra vacation, flexible hours or work-from-home schedules.
Discussing your salary in the right way and at the right time is always crucial in securing a role where you feel adequately compensated and recognised for your skills and experience.
Also see: Juggling study and work: Essential mental health tips for mid-career students
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