Salary Negotiation: Get Paid What You're Worth

Negotiating your salary is the highest ROI activity you can do. A 10-minute conversation can increase your lifetime earnings by ₹50 Lakhs+.

The Fear of Asking

Most people don't negotiate because:

1. "They might rescind the offer." (Rare).
2. "I don't want to look greedy." (It makes you look professional).
3. "I don't know what to say." (We will fix this).

Rule #1: Know Your Market Value

Before you ask, research.

• Websites: Glassdoor, AmbitionBox, LinkedIn Salary.
• Network: Ask peers "What is the range for this role in the market?"
• Outcome: "Based on my research, the market rate for this role is ₹15L - ₹18L."

Rule #2: Never Give a Number First

Recruiter: "What is your current CTC and expected CTC?" Wrong Answer: "Current is ₹10L, expecting ₹13L." Right Answer: "I'm flexible. I'd like to understand the role and budget for this position first."

Why? If you say ₹13L, and their budget was ₹18L, you just lost ₹5L.

Rule #3: The Counter-Offer Script

They offer: ₹12 Lakhs. You wanted: ₹15 Lakhs.

Don't say: "No, that's too low." Say: "I'm really excited about the role and the team. However, based on my experience and market research, I was looking at a range of ₹15L - ₹16L. Is there flexibility to get closer to that number?"

Rule #4: Negotiate Beyond Salary

If they say "No budget for salary," ask for:

• Joining Bonus (One time).
• Stocks / ESOPs.
• Remote Work days.
• Higher Designation.
• Relocation Allowance.

The "Current CTC" Trap

Recruiters base your offer on your Previous Salary, not your Value. How to handle: "My current package is ₹10L, but that was based on market rates 2 years ago. For this role, considering the responsibilities, I am looking at market correction to ₹16L."

7-Day Action Plan

Day 1: Go to AmbitionBox/Glassdoor. Find the salary range for your job title.
Day 2: List your top 3 achievements in the last year. (Quantify them: "Increased sales by 20%").
Day 3: Practice the "No Number First" script in front of a mirror.
Day 4: Calculate your "Walk Away Number". (The lowest offer you will accept).
Day 5: Update your LinkedIn profile. A strong profile increases your leverage.
Day 6: If you have an offer, draft a negotiation email. (Written is often easier than verbal).
Day 7: Roleplay a negotiation with a friend.

Quiz

💡 Final Wisdom: "Closed mouths don't get fed." Ask. The worst they can say is No. The best they can say is Yes.