Salary Negotiation Tips For HR And Payroll Pros

Although it's challenging for most people to leave their current employer, it is in your best interest to learn how to negotiate a pay raise.

A payroll or HR pro gets paid a salary with a 2% to 3% cost of living increase each year. And by the time 5 to 10 years roll by, you realize how underpaid you are in the marketplace. That said, ask yourself this question, “What would my boss have to pay to replace me?” Most likely, the answer is more money.

The old adage “The answer is no if you don’t ask the question” is alive and well regarding salary negotiations. Remember, a person’s compensation package is built around ranges. Although the pandemic has changed how many employees view compensation, you still need to focus on long-term loyalty and your career path (focusing solely on money can be a career mistake).

If you are unhappy at your current position, ask yourself why. Is it due to…

• Bad boss.
• Leadership changed or new owner.
• Little to no benefits/vacation time.
• Long commute.
• Long work hours.
• Too much stress.
• Toxic work environment/culture.
• You are being underpaid.

If your goal is to negotiate a better salary, here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Know What Your Skills Are Worth: Do some research on what the marketplace is paying for your years of experience, education, location, certifications, or any special training you have obtained.

2. Define Your Needs, Wants, And Pay: Write down what your needs, wants, and pay should be based on your goals. Conversely, you need to know what pay level you are willing to not accept or extra bonuses or benefits. More vacation time also is important to some people. Outline what perks matter to you most before you start negotiating. 

3. Ask For More After The Initial Offer: Most people in the business world don’t realize their total worth or ask for more on the initial offer (the initial offer can be improved upon).

4. Be Prepared: When on an interview or with your current employer, it is best to be prepared to talk about your salary. Although an increase in pay is your goal, promised bonuses, stock options, etc., oftentimes never happen. 

5. Plan Out What To Say: Here’s a sample script, "I'm hugely interested in the position; however, I was disappointed with the salary offer as it was lower than I expected, especially since I have X years of experience and my past track record of success." After saying this, stop talking and let the hiring person make the next move. 

6. Stay Confident: A seasoned hiring manager may ask what you had in mind for a salary. If they do, tell them what you want, as they will most likely come back with a better offer. You also need to negotiate the small stuff like vacation/PTO time, working from home schedule, etc. 



Summary: We recommend practicing your salary/package request, and if you do, you will reflect a confident person and your ability to get it. Nonetheless, it is critical to know what you are worth in the open market.