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!

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

Nexen Tire

Nexen Tire

NEXEN TIRE hat als erstes Unternehmen in Korea Reifen produziert! Seit den 80ern expandiert NEXEN TIRE kontinuierlich in alle globalen Märkte, wie U.S.A, China und Europa und hat sich zu einem Reifenproduzenten von Weltrang entwickelt.

Deutsche Telekom AG

Deutsche Telekom AG

Wir entwickeln Technologie und Innovationen für Menschen, Umwelt und Unternehmen. Sei dabei und gestalte mit uns Innovationen, mache den Alltag einfacher und sicherer mit KI, entwickle Lösungen für das Internet der Dinge oder digitalisiere Prozesse.

Brunel GmbH

Brunel GmbH

Als einer der führenden Ingenieurdienstleister innerhalb der DACH-Region und Tschechiens steht Brunel für erstklassige Projektlösungen und außergewöhnliche Karrierechancen in der Bandbreite modernen Engineerings und der IT.