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Negotiating Your Graduate Salary: How to Get What You're Worth in Finance and Technology

Negotiating your salary can be a daunting prospect, especially when you are just starting your career in finance or technology. However, negotiating your salary is essential to ensure that you are being paid what you are worth and to set the foundation for future salary increases. In this blog post, we will provide tips and tricks for negotiating your graduate salary in finance or technology.


Research Industry Salaries:

Before negotiating your salary, it is essential to research industry salaries for the role that you are applying for. Look at salary surveys and job postings to get an idea of what other companies are paying for similar roles. Understanding industry salaries will help you set realistic expectations for your negotiation.


Know Your Worth:

Knowing your worth is essential for negotiating your salary. Look at your qualifications, experience, and skills and determine what you bring to the table. Additionally, think about what you are looking for in a salary, including benefits, bonuses, and opportunities for growth.


Consider the Company's Budget:

When negotiating your salary, it is essential to consider the company's budget. Be mindful that the company has a budget and that they may not be able to offer you the salary that you are looking for. Additionally, consider other benefits that the company may offer, such as health insurance or a 401(k) match.


Practice Your Negotiation:

Practice your negotiation before your interview. Roleplay with a friend or family member to get comfortable with the negotiation process. Additionally, prepare your negotiation points, including your salary expectations, benefits, and opportunities for growth.


Be Confident:

Being confident is essential for negotiating your salary. Use positive body language, make eye contact, and speak clearly to show that you are confident in your negotiation. Additionally, make sure to stay calm and composed, even if the negotiation becomes challenging.


Start with a Strong Opening:

Start your negotiation with a strong opening. Begin by expressing your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Then, move on to your salary expectations, making sure to anchor your negotiation on a strong number.


Be Flexible:

Being flexible is essential for negotiating your salary. Be open to alternative benefits or opportunities for growth if the company cannot meet your salary expectations. Additionally, consider other factors that may be negotiable, such as vacation time or work-from-home options.


Don't Be Afraid to Walk Away:

If the company is not able to meet your salary expectations, don't be afraid to walk away. Remember that you have options and that there are other companies that may be willing to pay you what you are worth. Additionally, walking away can be a powerful negotiation tactic, as it shows that you are confident in your value.


Follow Up:

After the negotiation, make sure to follow up with the company. Send a thank-you note or email, expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role. Additionally, make sure to get the details of your offer in writing, including your salary, benefits, and start date.


Conclusion:

Negotiating your graduate salary in finance or technology can be intimidating, but it is essential to ensure that you are being paid what you are worth. By researching industry salaries, knowing your worth, and practicing your negotiation, you can set the foundation for a successful salary negotiation. Additionally, being confident, flexible, and willing to walk away can help you get what you're worth in the negotiation process. Remember to follow up after the negotiation and get the details of your offer in writing to ensure a successful transition into your new role.


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