If you’re unhappy at your current job, you may feel like it might be time to move on. It’s easy to feel stuck in your career or to believe that your situation can’t improve without making the big leap. However, it’s often possible to make the job you have more enjoyable with just a few changes. Think of what might make you feel more fulfilled or appreciated at work.
Whether it’s a raise, increased responsibility or more flexibility, you can probably get it if you take the initiative to ask. Many times people fall into an all or nothing mindset. That kind of belief is quite limiting. Consider these seven ways to get what you want at work before deciding to turn in your resignation.
1. Open Your Mind
The first step to getting what you want at work is to open your mind to the possibilities. Take a look at your list of things that could improve your daily life at work. Add to it if you need to. Then imagine how things would feel if you were to attain your desired changes. Would it be worth staying? Chances are, it would. It’s also important to re-evaluate your current ideas regarding negotiation. Often, employees believe that asking for what they want is disrespectful or that their employer will view them negatively. That’s not the case at all. Most supervisors will appreciate the fact that you took time to advocate for yourself in a professional and respectful manner. They’d almost always rather negotiate than to lose an employee.
2. Be Confident
Now that you’ve taken the time to convince yourself that your request is valid and deserved, it’s time to transform that belief into the confidence to approach your employer. You absolutely must go into the negotiation with a confident attitude, knowing that you are making a reasonable request and that you are deserving. If you aren’t confident in your position, your boss will be less likely to be persuaded.
3. Ask Directly
This isn’t the time for beating around the bush. Be sure to state very directly what it is that you want. Do not waver or back down with concessions. That’s not to say that compromise won’t be necessary later in the negotiation process. However, you want to come in strong at the beginning to show that you are serious.
4. Show Respect
At the same time, you don’t want to come across as aggressive or arrogant. Be respectful and professional in your tone. Maintain a straightforward manner without showing negative emotions such as hostility or resentment. Raising your voice or whining certainly won’t get you what you want.
5. Offer Proof
Be sure to arm yourself with evidence as to why you deserve what is is you’re requesting. Offer proof of your worthiness by listing the assets you bring to your work. Demonstrating concrete ways you provide value to the organization will go a long way toward turning the tables in your favor.
6. Demonstrate Benefit
Another strategy that will make for a stronger case is to present possible benefits your employer may gain from your proposal. For example, if you’d like to work part-time from home, you can remind your boss that your empty desk space would be perfect for the intern to use in your overcrowded office. Demonstrating gains for your boss will get you much closer to your goal.
7. Prepare for Rejection
If you go into your negotiation with the above points in mind, it’s likely that you will walk away with at least some of what you want. It’s important to be prepared for some rejection, though. It’s rare that one side gets everything they desire in a negotiation. Understand that your employer’s ultimate decision is based on what’s best for business and is not a direct reflection on you. Try not to take rejection personally.
Hopefully, you now feel ready to go after what you want at work. Negotiating with your employer could lead to big changes at your job. Give it a try. You may be surprised at what you can achieve.
Can you think of any other tips for getting what you want at work? Comment below and share your comments, I’d like to know what you think.