Negotiating Salaries for Recent Graduates: Valuable Guidance from Hispanic Engineer Magazine

POSTED ON Aug 29, 2023

According to a recent survey by Indeed Careers, only 19% of people feel adequately compensated for their work. This lack of pay satisfaction can lead to negative feelings and unhappiness on the job. Read more in Hispanic Engineer magazine.

To improve your job satisfaction and sense of worth, consider negotiating your salary with your employer. Here are some tips for a successful negotiation that could help you earn more money:

1) Don’t be afraid to ask: If you want a higher salary, you need to ask for it. Most employers won’t offer a raise unless prompted by the employee. Don’t be afraid to start the conversation, but be sure to ask for a reasonable amount.

2) Research average salaries: Before negotiating, research the Bureau of Labor Statistics website, contact competitors, and check job boards to determine the average salary for your position. Bring this research to the negotiation to support your request.

3) Timing matters: Timing is crucial when negotiating salary. If your company is doing well, it may be a good time to ask for a raise. However, if the company is struggling, you may not get a raise. Also, be sure to ask for a raise after you’ve done an exceptional job.

4) Know your number: Your employer will likely ask how much you want to make. Be prepared with a reasonable and supported number. Always offer a higher number to leave room for negotiation.

5) Be prepared to walk away: If you’re unhappy with your job and need more money, don’t be afraid to walk away. However, have a backup plan or another way to maintain your income. This step can be effective but may not always work.

Negotiating your salary can improve job satisfaction and help you earn more money. Don’t be afraid to ask for a reasonable amount and research average salaries beforehand.

Timing is crucial, so ask for a raise after doing an exceptional job. Have a reasonable number in mind and be prepared to walk away if necessary. Use these tips to start the conversation with your employer and increase your chances of success. Read more in Hispanic Engineer magazine.