For many people, requesting a raise equals a nightmare. They expect failure, ridicule, or that their superiors will become biased against them. When the company is looking for people to dismiss, they will be the first to go ... Should you remain silent? It is far better to negotiate. Try taking the request for a higher salary like any other negotiation which will end with an agreement. Prepare well and do not be afraid to speak your mind. At the same time, avoid the following myths highlighted by salary.com.
Myth: One can never collect enough information
A lack of information in today's world is a clear sign of laziness or incompetence. Everybody may find information about average salaries in different industries on the Internet. In the Czech Republic, for example, this information is available on the Czech Statistical Office website. Just open a search engine and enter keywords such as: average salary, salary survey, salary comparisons, etc.
Myth: Everyone asks for more money
The very opposite is true. Most of employees keep silent. When they get an interesting offer, they are not prepared to negotiate. Thus, just given the fact that you are interested in myths associated with salary negotiations gives you an advantage.
Myth: Negotiations about money are too difficult
All new things you need to learn are difficult at the beginning. Work on your negotiating skills. You can find inspiration in our previous articles entitled How (not) to ask for a salary increase and How not to ask for a pay raise.
Myth: Everybody who dares to negotiate will succeed
Even experienced negotiators should not rely on the fact that their employers will significantly increase their salaries. You should always base your salary requests on your corporate rules and salary-related data from the labour market.
Myth: You have to say how much you earned in your previous job
When you decide to change jobs, the question regarding the amount of your previous salary is very likely to come up. Some companies even use this question in the forms job applicants have to fill when applying. There are two possible solutions - you should either find a good excuse for not disclosing your previous salary, or find a new job through networking. When you come for an interview with a recommendation from someone influential, you probably will not be asked about your previous salary. There will be more room for you to negotiate a good salary.
Myth: Your success depends mostly on what you say
Remember that the way how you present your request is just as important. Do not start by using a sentence such as: "I do not know if you would consider my request, but I have to ask ..." Also be careful of your body language. Recommended articles: What is your body saying at important meetings?, 10 mistakes in nonverbal communication
Myth: Companies perceive requests for higher salaries as an insult
In most cases, your superiors will be pleasantly surprised that you want to talk about your career and that you are aware of your price. It is just important to behave as professionally as possible.
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