The truth is somewhere in the middle and which one applies to your situation depends mainly on the industry you work in. Many employers categorise their employees strictly in grades and tables, so there might be less wiggle room than you think. However, sometimes you can persuade you future employer to rank you a grade or two higher.
Myth #2 - A Beginning Salary Is Just a Start
While that may be true, most raises constitute a percentage of your current salary. So if you accept a lower salary without negotiating,you may be regretting it every time you get a raise.
Myth #3: Companies Will Be Offended If You Negotiate
That is not likely to happen as long as you negotiate in a business-like manner and are being realistic about your expectations. Know your market value and assume that the hiring manager knows it too.
Myth #4: You Lack the Necessary Information to Negotiate
Maybe, but that does not mean you cannot acquire it. There is a great array of websites that can tell you the average salary of professionals with your parameters.
Myth #5: What You Say Is All That Matters
It is not only what you say, but how you say it. Watch the tone of your voice and your body language. You should be confident, but not arrogant or aggressive. Try roleplaying the conversation.
Myth #6: Negotiation Is Too Difficult to Master
In fact, you use negotiation skills in your daily life already. You just need to apply the same principles to a new situation.Have a strategy and keep in mind that mutual agreement is your goal.
Myth #7: All Employees Deserve Equal Compensation
There are always high achievers that outperform the rest and it only makes sense that these individuals are worth more to a company.
Myth #8 - Always Negotiate For The Highest Salary
Cash is not necessarily the only item you can negotiate. Consider asking for other benefits, like flexible working hours or commute compensation.
Myth #9: Success Means Getting Paid More Than Previously
You can get offered more than in your previous position and still be underpaid. That is why you should align your salary goals with your current worth on the job market, not judge it against what you have made before, or what your colleagues are making.
Myth #10 - If I Decline The First Offer, Someone Else Will Take It
No need to be scared into taking the first offer. If you feel that you have proved your worth and that your demands are reasonable, if the future employer wants you enough, they will also pay you enough.
Veronika Bacova
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