Arguments for salary negotiation
Walk into your salary negotiation with confidence. Our AI tool helps you build strong arguments, whether you work in the public or private sector.
Prepare for the negotiation
Most salary increases don't happen by themselves. Here are 6 things you should have ready before the conversation.
Know the market
Research what others in similar positions earn. Use salary statistics and professional associations as reference.
Define your three numbers
Set your dream salary, your realistic expectation, and your walk-away point. This gives you a clear negotiation range.
Document your value
Collect concrete examples of results, extra responsibilities, and projects. Speak in measurable results, as they are hard to dismiss.
Think beyond the salary
Pension, vacation, remote work, and training have value too. Often they are easier to negotiate than base salary.
Choose the right timing
After a strong result or in connection with the annual review. Avoid stressful periods and bad news.
Practice your pitch
Rehearse your arguments out loud. It makes you more confident and helps you stay calm during the conversation.
Salary negotiation in 6 steps
From research to result. Here's how to navigate the negotiation professionally.
Research your starting point
Investigate the company's salary levels and what similar positions pay. Check annual reports, salary statistics, and talk to colleagues in the industry.
Define your three numbers
Set your dream salary, your realistic expectation, and your walk-away point. This gives you a clear negotiation range.
Document your value
Collect concrete examples of projects, results, and extra responsibilities. Speak in measurable results: "increased sales by 15%" beats "worked hard".
Let them speak first
Keep your cards close. Don't reveal your current salary or expectations too early. Let the employer make the first offer.
Negotiate the whole package
Think beyond base salary. Pension, vacation, remote work, training, and bonuses can have significant value and are often easier to negotiate.
Get it in writing
Agree on a follow-up and get all terms in writing. Send a summary email and thank them for the conversation. It shows professionalism.
Salary negotiation for private sector employees
In the private sector, you negotiate directly with your employer. This gives you flexibility, but also requires good preparation.
Know the market
Salaries in the private sector vary by experience, education, and workplace. Research industry salary levels, but remember that statistics are only guidelines.
Document your value
Increased responsibility, extra effort, courses, and innovative ideas. Log your achievements regularly so you have concrete arguments ready.
Create positive dialogue
Stay calm and speak clearly. Ask about future plans and show how you can contribute. If salary doesn't match, bring other benefits to the table.
End professionally
Get the agreement in writing and reflect on the process. Every negotiation is a learning experience for next time, regardless of the outcome.
Salary negotiation for public sector employees
In the public sector, salaries often follow collective agreements. But you still have opportunities to influence your salary through salary submissions.
Your salary submission
You can submit a salary request with arguments for adjustment based on qualifications, experience, and contribution to the workplace.
Check the budget
There may be funds allocated for salary negotiations. Ask your manager if there's budget available and when the next negotiation round is.
Meet the deadlines
Deadlines vary between workplaces. Be proactive and submit your salary request in good time. Ask your manager for exact dates.
Have questions?
Here are answers to common questions.
01 When is the best time to ask for a raise?
The best time is typically after you've delivered a strong result, completed an important project, or in connection with your annual review. Avoid asking during stressful periods or right after bad news for the company.
02 How much should I ask for in a raise?
A realistic salary increase is typically between 3-10% for an annual raise. When changing jobs or getting a promotion, you can expect 10-20%. Always base your request on market data and your documented value.
03 What do I do if I get a no?
Ask specifically what it would take to get a raise in the future. Agree on a follow-up in 3-6 months with clear goals. Also consider negotiating other benefits like extra vacation, training, or flexible work arrangements.
04 Should I mention other job offers in the negotiation?
Only use this tactic if you actually have another offer and are willing to take it. It can create distrust if you're bluffing. Focus instead on your value to the company and market salary levels.