Negotiating a contract change can be one of the most nerve-wracking things you do in your professional life. Whether you're seeking a potential pay rise or additional responsibilities, mastering the art of negotiation is crucial.
Having experienced both sides of the conversation (and coached many grads through the process) we’ve compiled our top 5 tips to negotiate a contract change, and potentially land a raise that reflects your true worth.
1. Highlight Your Accomplishments.
When preparing for any kind of review, it's crucial to make a compelling case for why you deserve a change in your contract or a pay rise. Start by listing your accomplishments and showcasing your success within the practice. This will not only reinforce your value, but also provide evidence of your contributions to the business.
2. Determine Your Desired Outcome.
Before entering negotiations, have a clear idea of what you would like to receive from the contract change. Whether it's a higher salary, additional benefits, or a modified work schedule, defining your objectives and desired outcomes will help keep communications clear and can assist with managing expectations.
3. Confidence.
Confidence is key when navigating any kind of tricky workplace communications. Believe in your abilities and the value you bring to the practice. Presenting your case with conviction will help your employer to see you as capable, confident, and self-assured; exactly the kind of personality traits they want to reward!
4. Highlight Mutual Benefits.
Practice owners and managers are generally happy to consider a pay rise or contract change if they can see a demonstrated history of where you have added value to their business. During negotiations, it is essential to highlight where and how you go above and beyond. You may also like to express your long-term vision and dedication to the practice and outline what kind of support you would need to help get you there. Generally, employers are willing to listen to proposals if they see you as an integral part of the business.
5. Formalise Your Requests in Writing.
Once you have outlined your desired changes, it's crucial to formalise your requests in a follow up email. Summarise the key points discussed during the negotiation and your proposed contract modifications. This ensures clarity and provides a documented record of your requests, serving as a reference point for any future discussions.
Remember, after a successful negotiation, it's essential to have your revised contract reviewed to ensure it aligns with your agreed-upon terms and protects your interests. The
most important things to remember are to prepare well, be confident, and get that new contract reviewed by The Savvy Grad!
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