Unpopular Opinion: You Don’t Always Have to Negotiate
Today we’re talking about negotiation!
Whether you’re looking for a new job, angling for a promotion, or trying to convince your toddler to eat the damn broccoli, negotiation is a big part of your every day.
When we sat down with Recruiter at AJW Attorney Search Ian Delaney and his simple negotiation tip is often overlooked:
Know when you have leverage, and when you don't.
With the job search in particular, there’s a lot of advice out there telling you to negotiate no matter what.
But what if it’s a union position with a set rate & benefits?
What if it’s at the top of the pay scale and your experience is mid range at best?
What if they can’t budge on the things you want (e.g. more PTO, etc.) and you don’t actually want other stuff?
And when negotiating, leverage is talking about the power that you have to influence the other side into moving closer to your position - real talk: giving you more of what you want.
Sometimes, you realize that a) you don’t have leverage (read: power) & b) you don’t care!
I’m the 1st to tell you to see if you can negotiate, but that’s ONLY IF you’ve done your homework.
Just because you want another 10K doesn’t mean there’s any reason for the company to give you more. Is there a range posted for the position? What have the recruiters said? What salary information can you find online for comparable positions? How’s the market for your specific skillset and expertise?
All that info informs you about your leverage. Your power. Remember, knowledge gives you power.
Then there’s the do you care piece. Do not negotiate just to negotiate.
Again, do not negotiate just to negotiate. Unless you want to. Unless it brings you joy.
If the upside is so small that it’s not worth your time or conversation, that’s fair! You do not have to do it just because other people are telling you to.
Check out the MRM Blog for the full HR Spotlight on Ian Delaney where he’ll share tips and expertise to help you level up and find that next career move!
