You've made it through the application process and an offer is on the table. The salary negotiation meeting is where you settle your salary, hours and terms, and it's the only moment where you can actually discuss them. Those who come prepared walk away with more. Below is what's up for discussion and how to prepare.
This meeting follows the final interview round, once the employer wants to hire you. It covers salary, contract length, hours, holiday days, pension, travel expenses, working from home and training opportunities. Often the employer makes a proposal and you respond to it. You don't have to say yes straight away: asking for time to think it over is normal, and everything you agree on should then appear in your contract.
What's the lowest figure you'll accept, and what will you do if it doesn't work out? Decide that at home, not at the table.
Look at the salary range in the job advert, the collective agreement if there is one, and what similar roles pay in your region.
Take them from your own CV: results, experience that matches the vacancy exactly, and what you bring that other candidates don't.
There's often more room here than in the figure itself, especially with employers covered by a collective agreement.
Think of things like "that doesn't fit the budget" or "we want to see what you can do first". Expecting them helps you stay calm.
Salary is one line in your contract. These elements together matter just as much, and they're often easier to negotiate.
A conversation after six months, with an agreed pay rise if things go well. Get it in writing.
How many days, and whether that's fixed or agreed week by week.
A set amount per year, or a specific course the employer pays for.
There's often room above the statutory minimum, especially if the salary is fixed.
Small amounts that add up every month.
How much the employer contributes and whether you join straight away.
A longer contract or a shorter probation period gives you security that's worth money.
That depends on the role, the region, your experience and what's stated in the job advert. A rule of thumb: name a range where the lower end is your own target, and back it up with what you've achieved, not with what you need. Want a figure that fits your vacancy, with real salary data and the arguments from your own CV? The salary negotiation tool works it out for you and gives you a cheat sheet for the meeting.
Upload your CV and the job advert. For a one-off fee, you'll get advice on what's standard, your strongest arguments and answers to objections.
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