How To Successfully Negotiate Your Job Offer
Due to frequent relocations and the unpredictable nature of military life, military spouses and partners can often face unique challenges in their quest for career advancement. However, mastering the art of negotiating job offers can have a huge impact on job satisfaction and career progression, offering a pathway to achieving a better work-life balance.
Know your worth
Understanding your market value is crucial. Research salary ranges for similar positions in your industry and location to provide a solid foundation. Define your priorities by listing your non-negotiables and nice-to-haves, whether it’s salary expectations, flexible working hours or remote work options. Establishing these boundaries ensures you focus negotiations on what matters most to you and helps you avoid agreeing to unfavourable terms.
Communicate effectively
Timing is critical. Wait until you receive a job offer before starting negotiations.
Propose a salary range instead of a specific number to show flexibility while anchoring the discussion around your target income, providing room for negotiation. Communicate with confidence, as this demonstrates that you know your value.
Take a collaborative approach to negotiations
Approach negotiations as a win-win scenario. Highlight how your proposed arrangements (e.g. request for flexible, part-time or remote working) can benefit the employer, whether through enhanced productivity, improved work-life balance or increased job satisfaction. Emphasising mutual benefits to you and your employer strengthens your position and encourages a co-operative discussion.
Prepare and practise
Negotiation can be daunting, but preparation builds confidence. To refine your strategy, rehearse your pitch with a careers advisor. The more you practise, the more comfortable you’ll be during the conversation.
Negotiating job relocation
Relocating can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining your career. Successfully negotiating a job transfer or remote work arrangement can be possible with the right approach.
Check your organisation’s policies
Start by familiarising yourself with your organisation’s policies on remote work, relocating and transfers. Knowing these guidelines helps frame your request appropriately and clarifies what’s feasible.
Prepare a solid case
Highlight your contributions, achievements, skills and the value you bring to your team to build a strong business case for your request. Showcasing your commitment and positive impact can reinforce the importance of retaining you despite a change in location due to the military posting. Emphasise the benefits for both you and your employer — retaining you avoids the cost and disruption of hiring and training a new employee.
Propose a clear plan
Understand the technologies available to ensure seamless communication and productivity, and think about how you’ll attend key meetings, even if they fall outside your time zone. Be prepared to address your manager’s concerns with practical solutions.
Express your commitment
Reassure your employer of your continued commitment to your role and the organisation.
Emphasise that despite the relocation, your dedication to your work and goals within the company remain unchanged.
Be open to compromise
While advocating for your needs, be open to your employer’s alternative solutions, such as adjusting your role to suit the relocation better.