NEGOTIATING YOUR SALARY IN TODAY’S KENYA

In the face of rising inflation, taxes, and the ever-increasing demands of daily life in Nairobi and other Kenyan cities, many professionals struggle to make ends meet. With the cost of living growing, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a comfortable standard of living on a stagnant salary.

In this challenging landscape, employees need to advocate for themselves and negotiate for fair compensation. While it can be frightening to ask for a pay raise, especially in a competitive job market, doing so is crucial to ensure that your salary keeps pace with your contributions to the company and the rising cost of living.

MASTERING THE ART OF SALARY NEGOTIATION

Negotiation is a vital skill in both personal and professional life, whether negotiating your salary, buying a car, or resolving conflicts within your community. By refining your negotiation skills, you can improve your chances of achieving your goals and securing the best possible outcomes.

This guide will provide you with practical tips and strategies tailored to the Kenyan context, helping you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities that arise in our dynamic economy.

Research Market Rates

Before entering negotiations, research the average salaries and benefits for your position in your industry and location. Use resources like Glassdoor to gather relevant data.

Quantify Your Value

Highlight your unique skills, experiences, and achievements that make you a valuable asset to the company. Prepare specific examples of how your contributions have positively impacted the organization.

“Information is a negotiator’s greatest weapon.” – Victor Kiam

Set Realistic Expectations

Based on your research and self-assessment, set realistic salary and benefits expectations. Avoid aiming too high, as it can lead to a breakdown in negotiations.

Practice Your Negotiation Skills

Practice your negotiation skills by role-playing with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and prepared for the actual negotiation.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

Develop a negotiation strategy, including your opening offer, potential counteroffers, and your bottom line. Be prepared to discuss your salary and benefits requirements clearly and concisely.

Start High

When making your initial salary request, start slightly higher than your target salary. This leaves room for negotiation and compromise.

Be Flexible and Willing to Compromise

Show a willingness to be flexible and consider alternative compensation options, such as bonuses, shares options, or additional benefits.

Avoid Getting Emotional

Maintain a calm and professional demeanour throughout the negotiation process. Avoid getting emotional or defensive, as it can weaken your position.

“The most difficult thing in any negotiation, almost, is making sure that you strip it of the emotion and deal with the facts.” – Howard Baker

Continuously Improve Your Skills

Negotiation is a skill that can be honed over time. Practice regularly, seek feedback, and learn from your experiences. The more you negotiate, the better you’ll become at it.

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD YOU ASK FOR A PAY RISE?

Let’s look into the story of Sarah, a typical Kenyan employee. Sarah is feeling the weight of rising economic demands. Sarah dreamt of a life where she could afford to pursue her passions, buy good dresses, afford to look good, travel, and provide a comfortable future for her family. But with each passing salary, her dreams seemed to slip further out of reach.

One evening, as Sarah sat at her dining table, thinking over her bills, a wave of frustration washed over her. She couldn’t continue to accept this situation. It was time to take control of her financial destiny.

Equipped with determination, Sarah embarked on a journey of self-discovery and negotiation. She researched market rates for her position, meticulously documented her achievements, and prepared a compelling case for a salary increase.

With a newfound sense of confidence, Sarah approached her manager, her heart pounding in her chest. She presented her case with clarity and conviction, highlighting the value she brought to the company and the contributions she had made to its success.

To Sarah’s surprise, her manager was receptive to her request. He acknowledged her hard work and agreed that she deserved a raise. After a series of negotiations, they reached a mutually satisfactory agreement, and Sarah finally received the compensation she had long deserved.

As Sarah walked out of her manager’s office, a sense of relief and empowerment washed over her. She had broken free from the chains of under-compensation and taken a significant step towards achieving her financial goals.

Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of negotiation and the importance of advocating for oneself. It serves as an inspiration to countless individuals who may be feeling trapped in underpaying jobs. By understanding their worth, preparing thoroughly, and approaching negotiations with confidence, anyone can break free from the salary shackles and secure the compensation they deserve.

Essential Resources for Salary Negotiation

Online Courses and Tutorials:

• Negotiation Ninja: This website offers a comprehensive range of online courses and resources on negotiation skills, including specific tips for salary negotiations.
• The Harvard Negotiation Institute: Explore their blog and resources for insights into effective negotiation strategies and techniques.
• LinkedIn Learning: This platform offers a vast library of courses on various topics, including negotiation and communication skills.

Books and Articles:

• “Getting to Yes” by Roger Fisher and William Ury: A classic negotiation book that provides practical strategies for achieving mutually beneficial agreements.
• “Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss: This book offers insights into the techniques used by FBI negotiators and how they can be applied to everyday negotiations.
• “The Art of Negotiation” by Herb Cohen: A comprehensive guide to negotiation that covers various aspects of the process, from preparation to closing the deal.

Online Tools and Calculators:

• Salary.com: This website provides salary data and comparison tools to help you determine a fair market value for your skills and experience.
• Glassdoor: Explore company reviews, salary information, and interview questions to gain insights into industry standards and negotiation tactics.
• Payscale: This website offers salary data and compensation benchmarking tools to help you assess your market value.

Networking and Support Groups:

• LinkedIn: Connect with professionals in your field, join relevant groups, and seek advice from experienced negotiators.
• Industry associations: Join professional organizations related to your industry to network with peers and learn about best practices.
• Online forums and communities: Participate in online discussions and seek support from other job seekers who are facing similar challenges.

By utilizing these free resources, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to negotiate your salary confidently and effectively. Remember, preparation is key to success, so take the time to explore these resources and practice your negotiation skills.

Looking for expert guidance on career growth, negotiation, and employee development? Our team of seasoned career coaches is here to empower you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Here’s what we can offer:

• Learn how to confidently negotiate your salary and secure the compensation you deserve.
• Discover your strengths and how to articulate them effectively to employers.
• Create a tailored career roadmap that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
• Learn how to diversify your income streams and build a sustainable financial future.

Ready to take charge of your career? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.