Salary discussions can be stressful in any environment for any person. But, the key to asking for what you want is to have a clear plan.

With this step-by-step guide to negotiating your salary, you'll be better prepared to ask for what you want confidently.

Step 1:

Let's cover the basics.

Before you ask for anything you should have clarity around your professional skill set. That means being honest about which skills may add the most value to an employer. On the flip side, keep it real on what skills you may want to enhance. The expectations you set mentally about what you bring to the table play a role in the entire tone of the salary conversation.

So, think about your resume not as a dry and dusty paper, but a flex on what you can deliver when you’re in the office.

Step 2:

Determine what salary market rate you should expect to earn and base your starting place on that figure. If you’re not sure where to start check out salary database websites to get a ballpark figure.

The salary database for Black women.
The salary database built to arm you with knowledge and confidence.

Please don't make the mistake of winging it. If you want to level up your negotiation skills, you need to know the salary range and how your skills add value to the company or team you’re interviewing with.

Step 3:

Practice what you're going to say before you get on Zoom or the phone to negotiate. In my book Don't Leave Money on The Table, Negotiation Strategies I put you on game with the LATTE negotiation method.

LATTE has 5 simple moves:

  • Look at the details
  • Anticipate challenges
  • Think about your walk-away point
  • Talk it through
  • Evaluate all options

By using this method, you'll be ready for any curveballs in the salary negotiation process.

Step 4:

If you ask for a salary in line with the market rate and the company says, "No, sorry we can't do that." Acknowledge it then concisely ask if any expectations have ever been made and wait for a response.

Remember that while salary negotiation can be stressful amid a pandemic, you can come out on top when you've created a strategy.

Follow these proven steps and you’ll boost your confidence to ask for what you want.