Tips for Talking About Salary with Your Manager
Bringing up salary can feel uncomfortable, but with the right preparation and approach, it can strengthen your career path and reflect your true value at work. Below are actionable tips to help you navigate salary discussions with confidence.
1. Prepare with Research
Before scheduling a meeting, gather market data on comparable roles in your industry. Reliable resources include salary surveys, job postings, and reputable career websites. This gives you evidence to support your request.
2. Choose the Right Timing
Timing matters. Aim for discussions after a successful project, during performance reviews, or when responsibilities have expanded. Avoid approaching your manager during budget crises or stressful deadlines.
3. Build a Case with Achievements
Compile concrete examples of how your work has benefited the team or company outcomes. Highlight measurable achievements such as revenue growth, efficiency improvements, or client satisfaction increases.
4. Practice Your Delivery
Rehearse what you plan to say. Keep the tone professional, confident, and solution-oriented. Role-play with a mentor or friend to refine your delivery and anticipate possible objections from your manager.
5. Focus on Collaboration
Treat the conversation as a dialogue rather than a demand. Ask for your manager’s perspective, listen to feedback, and explore options such as phased increases, bonuses, or professional development opportunities.