There are even cases where the applicant doesn’t get the job because the salary is too low, which many managers confirm. If someone asks for less than the HR manager has budgeted for the position, then they conclude that the person is not ready for the position. Especially when it comes to management positions and six-figure salaries.
2. State the minimum salary
“I want to earn at least x euros.” In negotiations you should never assume the minimum, as this will reduce your own chances and not give yourself the opportunity to achieve the best possible result. Define a minimum, optimal and maximum salary for yourself. Then negotiate within this range and start the conversation with the maximum salary.
3. Ask a counter question
During the interview, many applicants ask the counter question as to how much budget is planned for the position. In this way, they hope that the future employer will offer a suitable annual salary. However, due to his conflict of interest, the HR manager will under no circumstances mention the highest possible salary. He will most likely start in the bottom third – in the hope that the employee agrees. With this question, the applicant also signals that he does not know his own worth and is insecure. If he were aware of his own worth, he would name a specific amount.
Salary: 5 negotiation tips for women
Strategy is trump
On the one hand, women should generally be prepared for negotiations to take place at all. Secondly, it’s about the specifics: how much “buffer” do you take into account? What arguments do you use to support your own claim? You have to prepare questions like these.
Be a good playing partner for yourself
If you are not really confident in yourself, you could stumble upon the “inner critic”. A typically female weakness. Women should be aware of what they have already achieved. For example, you can hang certificates or awards above your desk or read the emails with words of appreciation from your customers.
Stay cool and professional
It’s not about an obscure poker face. But probably about objective distance. If the other person wants to downplay demands, please do not take this as a personal attack. The negotiating partner is simply trying to get a good price for himself or his company.
Do not shoot powder too quickly
Women tend to have the attitude: Before we spend any more time negotiating here, I’ll just give in – otherwise nothing will ever move forward. They must understand that negotiation is part of their job or assignment and not an annoying afterthought.
See the negotiation in a playful way
A playful attitude can’t hurt. Women can imagine the arguments as cards. Who will make which move? The motto here is: “If you don’t dare, you won’t win!”
Sandra Schubert
Sandra Schubert sees herself as an expert in sales and positive psychology. She is also involved as a mentor for a MINT program at the Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences (University of Applied Sciences). Her observation: “Young women no longer need protective fences!”
Tanja Peters
Tanja Peters is a negotiation expert, systemic consultant and trainer. Because success is not just a matter of the head, she also offers courageous muscle training.
