Salary negotiation: How to be successful

The job search after graduation is accompanied by the first hurdle: Formulating your salary expectations. Don't worry, we have summarized the most important information for you!

Absolventenhut liegt auf Geldscheinen Canva/zimmytw’s images

Tips for determining your own market value:

  • Use a salary calculator to get comparison values for the salary in your dream job.
  • Gain an overview of the (average) salary in your industry using salary tables. It's important to note the differences between entry-level salaries and salaries for individuals with more work experience. Include any previous work experience you may have in your considerations and later arguments. 
  • Use a gross-net calculator for a realistic understanding of your salary.

Formulate your salary expectations:

  • If the application explicitly asks for your desired salary, make sure to provide it.
  • Be prepared to negotiate: Determine a maximum amount that is appropriate for the position. Establish a minimum salary below which you are not willing to negotiate. It's important not to set your expectations unrealistically high, but also not to undervalue yourself.
  • Show your worth: Outline your advantages and the added value you bring to the job.
  • Stay objective and avoid letting personal circumstances influence your negotiation.
  • Be flexible: If your desired salary cannot be met immediately but you still want to work for the company, a plan for salary development can be formulated in advance.

Tip: Enter the negotiation well-informed, with clear expectations for your salary and knowledge of the appropriate salary for your industry and position.

Best of luck!

Current companies in Career World

Landeshauptstadt Stuttgart

Landeshauptstadt Stuttgart

Werde "Stuttgart von Beruf" und starte deine Karriere bei uns! 16.000 Kolleginnen und Kollegen, über 350 vielfältige Berufe, sinnstiftende Tätigkeiten, flexible Arbeitsmodelle & zahlreiche starke Benefits warten auf dich.

Laufenberg Michels und Partner mbB

Laufenberg Michels und Partner mbB

Wir sind eine Steuerberatungs- und Wirtschaftsprüfungskanzlei mit 14 Partner*innen und 170 Mitarbeitenden in Köln. Neben spannenden Mandaten aus verschiedensten Branchen profitierst du von starken Benefits und einer wertschätzenden Arbeitsumgebung.

Peek & Cloppenburg B.V. & Co. KG Düsseldorf

Peek & Cloppenburg B.V. & Co. KG Düsseldorf

Tradition & Innovation, Retail Stores & Onlineshops – bei P&C Düsseldorf vereinen wir Gegensätze und gestalten so die Zukunft des Retail. Was uns verbindet: eine Hands-on-Mentalität und Gestaltungswille. Erkennst Du Dich wieder?