Crush Your Salary Talks Without Breaking a Sweat

Why Salary Talks Feel Like a Cage Match

Negotiating your pay can feel like stepping into a ring with a grizzly bear. Most IT folks would rather debug a thousand lines of legacy code than ask for more money. Fear of rejection stings. Worries about seeming greedy creep in. The truth? Companies expect you to negotiate. They’re not your mom handing out cookies. You’re a pro with skills they need. Own that fact. Prep like it’s a high stakes project. Walk in ready to make your case.

Prep Moves That Win the Game

Start by knowing your worth. Research market rates for your role on sites like Glassdoor or Levels.fyi. Factor in your experience plus unique skills. Don’t just wing it. Build a list of your wins like shipped projects or systems you saved from meltdown. Numbers talk louder than feelings. Practice your pitch out loud. Record it. Watch for filler words or weak vibes. Confidence comes from reps.

Sealing the Deal with Swagger

When it’s go time, keep it calm. State your number first to set the anchor. Don’t lowball yourself. If they push back, pivot to questions. Ask what their budget looks like. Highlight your value without groveling. Silence is your friend. Let them stew after you make a point. If they can’t meet your number, float perks like extra vacation or remote work. Close strong by summarizing why you’re worth it.

Take Control of Your Career

Want more tips to level up your career game? My newsletter drops weekly insights to help you own your path. No fluff. Just real talk for IT pros ready to break free. Join now at andywergedal.com/newsletter. Stop sitting on the sidelines. Your next big move starts here.