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The Modern Yuppie: How to negotiate a good wage

Amber Yake - News Editor

You’re looking for a job – any job – for after graduation. And wage is probably the last thing on your mind, you just want a full-time, decent-paying job that will further your career, right?

Well, if you’re not careful, and you don’t negotiate the wage you not only want, but need, then you might end up in the dreaded credit card debt that I discussed a few weeks ago in this column.

You’re worth a certain amount. Here’s how to make sure you get it.

1. Be able to prove your performance

Have examples of WHY you deserve the wage you do by showing them work that you’ve done in the past. Prove that you’re an investment and you’re worth it.

2. Write it down

Make a list of all of your accomplishments and goals at the company. Accomplishments detail why you deserve the wage you do and the goals show your boss that you are goal-oriented and determined to grow and improve in that position!

3. Mind your manners

Be assertive and polite. Don’t make demands and respect whatever decision they make. Always thank them for their time.

4. Do your research

Know what you’re worth and don’t ask for more than they should be paying you. Research online, ask other people in the industry, find out what you should be getting paid and ask for it using the above tips. If it’s not more then you should be getting paid and you truly deserve it then you will probably get it

5. Be Flexible

Maybe your boss can’t offer you the wage you want but they can offer you an extra week of vacation a year or the last Friday of every month off. In some situations you need to take what you can get. If your boss wants to compromise with you then they obviously value you and your experience and don’t want to lose you!

6. Make arrangements to reassess

If you are offered a wage lower then what you asked for but you still really want the job, make arrangements to reassess with your boss in 3-6 months. By that point you will have a list of things you’ve achieved at the company and a better idea of how many billable hours you’ve put in. If you are putting in a lot more hours than planned you may be able to negotiate the wage you’d originally asked for.