Imagine this: You’ve just landed an interview for your dream job. You nail the interview, and the recruiter says those magic words; “We’d like to make you an offer.” Exciting, right? But then the salary figure they mention makes your heart sink. You’re left wondering, “Can I negotiate this? Will they think I’m greedy?”

Here’s the truth: Salary negotiation isn’t just for senior professionals or big-shot executives. Even as a junior professional in Nigeria, you have the right to ask for what you’re worth. We will show you how to do it without feeling awkward or scared.

Why You Should Negotiate

Let’s clear something up. Companies expect candidates to negotiate. In fact, many hiring managers respect candidates more when they advocate for themselves. The worst that can happen? They say no. But the best? You walk away with more money, better benefits, or both.

Think of it this way: If you accept a low offer, it could take years before your salary catches up to where it should be. Starting strong sets the foundation for your future earnings.

1. Do Your Homework

Before you even think about negotiating, arm yourself with information. What’s the market rate for your role in Nigeria? Websites like Jobberman, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can give you insights. Talk to industry peers (if you know any) to get a realistic idea of salary ranges.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that salaries can vary based on location. A digital marketing executive in Lagos might earn more than someone in the same role in Ibadan.

1. Know Your Value

What do you bring to the table? Maybe you just graduated, but you interned at a top company and learned valuable skills. Or perhaps you’ve taken online courses that give you an edge over other candidates.

List out your skills, achievements, and any experience that makes you a strong hire. When you understand your value, it’s easier to communicate why you deserve a higher salary.

1. Let Them Make the First Offer

If possible, avoid mentioning a specific figure first. Let the employer put their offer on the table. This gives you a starting point for negotiation. If they press you for a number, give a salary range based on your research.

Example Response: “Based on my research and the value I believe I can bring to this role, I’m looking at a range between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000 per month.”

1. Counter Politely but Firmly

When they present an offer, don’t rush to say yes (even if you’re secretly excited). Take a moment to evaluate it. If it’s lower than you expected, counter politely.

Example: “Thank you for the offer. I’m really excited about the opportunity to join your team. Based on my skills and the market rate for this role, I was hoping for something closer to ₦600,000 per annum. Is there room to discuss this?”

1. Think Beyond the Money

Sometimes, a company genuinely can’t meet your salary expectations. In that case, consider negotiating other benefits like:

• Remote work options
• Paid training or certifications
• Performance bonuses
• Health insurance
• More paid leave days

These perks can add significant value to your overall compensation.

1. Practice Confidence

Confidence is key during negotiations. Even if you’re nervous, try not to show it. Practice with a friend or mentor until you feel comfortable. Remember, the employer chose you out of many candidates; they already see your value.

1. Know When to Walk Away

If the offer doesn’t align with your worth and there’s no room for negotiation, it’s okay to politely decline. Walking away shows that you respect yourself and your value.

Example: “Thank you for the offer. After careful consideration, I’ve decided it’s not the right fit for me at this time. I truly appreciate the opportunity and wish your team all the best.”

Key Takeaways

• Research the market rate for your role.
• Highlight your unique skills and value.
• Let the employer make the first offer.
• Negotiate politely but confidently.
• Consider non-monetary perks.
• Be prepared to walk away if necessary.

Negotiating your salary might feel intimidating at first, but it gets easier with practice. Remember: You deserve to be paid fairly for your skills and contributions. So, take a deep breath, know your worth, and go get that bag!