Hey Lykkers! Let’s have a real talk about something that makes even the boldest among us feel a little uneasy: asking for more money. Whether you’re starting a new job or have been crushing it at your current one, the moment of negotiation can feel like a high-stakes showdown.

But what if it’s not a confrontation at all? Think of it instead as a collaborative conversation where you present a compelling case for your value. It's not about being demanding; it's about being prepared. Let's reframe that nervous energy into confident strategy.

The Mindset Shift: It's a Business Discussion, Not a Personal Favor

First, let’s ditch the guilt. Your salary is not a favor your boss grants you; it’s the market rate for your skills, experience, and the problems you solve.

Walking into this conversation with a mindset of professional exchange changes everything. As Margaret A. Neale, a negotiation professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business, states, “When I present a proposal to you, this should be framed as a solution to a problem that you have.”

Step 1: Build Your Unshakeable Case (The Homework Phase)

You can't negotiate with "I feel I deserve more." You negotiate with data and evidence. This is your power base.

Research the Market: Know your worth. Use tools like Glassdoor and Payscale, plus industry salary surveys and recruiter ranges. Find the typical compensation band for your role, your area, and your level of experience. This gives you an objective benchmark.

Document Your Wins: Create a simple achievement file that lists specific, measurable outcomes. Did you increase sales by 15%? Streamline a process that saved 10 hours a week? Lead a project that came in under budget? Numbers tell a powerful story because they translate your work into business impact.

Step 2: Master the Conversation (Strategy & Scripting)

Timing and framing drive most of the outcome.

For a Raise: Don't ambush your manager. Schedule a dedicated meeting. Say, “I’d like to schedule a time to discuss my role and my compensation.” Come prepared with your brag document.

For a New Job Salary: Always wait for the official offer first. This is when you have maximum leverage. Respond with enthusiasm, then pivot: “Thank you so much for this offer. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific team/goal]. Based on my research into market rates for this role and the [specific skills/experience] I bring, I was hoping we could discuss a starting salary in the range of [your target number].”

Pro Tip: State a specific number at the higher end of your researched range. This "anchors" the negotiation in your favor.

Step 3: Handle Objections with Grace

The first "no" is rarely the final answer. Be ready to listen and problem-solve.

If They Cite Budget: Try: “I understand budget planning is complex. Could we explore a performance-based bonus for the next quarter?” or “Would it be possible to revisit this in six months with specific milestones?”

Embrace the Pause: After stating your number, be comfortable with silence. Let them respond first. This simple tactic is incredibly powerful.

Step 4: Look at the Whole Package

If the base salary is immovable, negotiate the entire compensation package:

- Signing or Performance Bonus

- Additional Equity or Stock Options

- Increased Vacation Time or Flexible/Remote Work Days

- Professional Development Fund for courses or conferences

- A faster path to promotion with clear criteria

The Non-Negotiable Finale: Get It in Writing

Once you reach an agreement—whether for a new offer or a raise—send a polite email summarizing the details. This ensures clarity and creates a shared record.

Lykkers, remember this: organizations expect negotiation, and many first offers leave room to move. By stepping into the conversation prepared and professional, you’re not just asking for more money—you’re demonstrating strategic thinking and communication skills that make you worth the investment.