Negotiation skills in professional life: How to get a higher salary or better conditions

Talking about salary often feels uncomfortable. Many people shy away from it or wait for someone else to make the first move. But negotiating isn't a power game – it's part of your job.

If you know what you want and how to communicate it, you can get more out of it: a better salary, more flexible working hours, exciting projects. And all without having to elbow your way to the top.

Here are some tips to help you come across as confident and fair, whether you're just starting out in your career or further along the line.

Preparation is everything

Without clarity, there can be no discussion on equal terms. Think about the following in advance: - What is important to you? Money, free time, responsibility? - What do others in similar roles earn? - What is your personal minimum?

Use tools such as salary comparisons or talk to people who do similar jobs. That way, you won't be guessing, you'll be negotiating.

Know your worth

You don't have to be perfect, but you can show what you can do. Make a concrete record of what you have achieved so far: projects, results, responsibilities.

Don't use a tone that says ‘I'm the best’, but rather a calm, honest and to-the-point tone. This shows that you know what you have to offer and you stand by it.

Consider more than just salary

Not everything revolves around money. Perhaps you would like flexible working hours, support for further training, additional holiday days or more home office time.

The clearer you are about your wishes, the more openly you can negotiate and perhaps come up with a better overall package, even if the salary range is limited.

Don't commit yourself straight away

If someone gives you a figure straight away, stay calm. Thank them, ask for a little time to think about it, or turn the tables and ask about the usual range within the company.

This will buy you some time and prevent you from selling yourself short too early on.

Ask about development, not just money

When starting your career, it is particularly worthwhile to ask about prospects: ‘What opportunities for development are there after the first year?’ or ‘What about further training?’

This shows that you are not only interested in the salary, but also in learning and contributing in the long term.

Practice makes perfect

Negotiations often seem unpleasant because we rarely practise them. Do it anyway: with a friend, a parent, alone in front of the mirror.

Say out loud what you want to say. Go through typical questions. This will calm your nerves and help you stay confident when it counts.

Remain clear, remain calm, remain appreciative

Negotiating does not mean being loud. It means knowing what you want and expressing it in a calm tone.

Remain friendly but firm. Show interest, but also set boundaries. And don't forget: good employers value people who know what they need.