[ad_1]
They say money talks. But talk on money? Well, that can be embarrassing at best.
Yes, many of us get sweaty mouths when they think about having a conversation about our salaries and benefits. However, we all know it’s important to have a discussion – whether you’re in the process of accepting a new job, or even have some questions about a position you’ve been in for a while already.
So what do you need to know to get information about these important things in a polished and professional manner (and not make you breathe into a paper bag)? Here are some steps that you should make sure to remember.
Think about your position in the process
As with anything, timing is everything. So, whether you’re in the middle of the hiring process or you’ve been employed somewhere for a while, the right timing is something you should seriously consider before you start asking your questions.
If you’re currently interviewing, you already know that it’s not a good idea to start your first phone check with, “So, what’s the salary and how many days off do I get?” Remember, previous interviews and talks are for you to learn more about the company and the position itself. Conversations about wages and other benefits should be reserved for later, usually after receiving a formal offer.
Timing won’t be a big factor if you have some questions about your salary at your current workplace, since you already have the job. Keep in mind, however, that discussions about your salary and benefits are serious, and deserve the full attention of you and whoever you’re talking to. So, make sure you schedule a meeting with your boss or HR representative, instead of nonchalantly attacking them with, “Hey, I think I should be making more money!” Statement about the coffee pot.
Decide who you want to talk to
Regardless of whether you’re in the middle of the interview process or you’re already employed, you need to remember not to just think about your job how You ask these questions, however from You ask.
When you’re looking for a job, any questions about your salary and benefits should be directed first to who your main point of contact has been throughout the entire process – most likely your HR representative. He or she should be able to provide you with the information you need (it’s literally his job!).
What if you have some questions about how the pay and benefits thing works at your current company? Well, you have two different options for who you can ask. Of course, HR is always a safe bet, and when in doubt, make HR your default. But, if you just need a quick rundown of how something like a time off request in your office works or something equally simple and straightforward, you can usually also reach out to your supervisor or even a co-worker to get a concise and helpful answer to your question. a question.
Do your research
Often, people have the same questions about things about pay and benefit structures. Rather than having to answer the same questions over and over again, many companies create some kind of document or resource for potential and current employees to refer back to.
Before you start asking the full list of questions, roll up your sleeves and do a little research to see if you can find the information you need on your own.
Yes, that might mean having to do some website digging or reading the giant package HR handed you. But, can you save yourself the trouble of having to ask someone questions that have already been answered elsewhere? Well, that’s more than worth it!
Remember questions about accusations
To ensure that these conversations run as smoothly as possible, you’ll also need to monitor them closely how You ask your questions. Remember that operative word is there Questions– not accusations.
It is important that you frame things accordingly, making it clear that you are simply trying to gather more information, rather than pointing fingers or complaining about something.
For example, saying something like, “Can you explain how you determine the number of PTO days for each employee?” It sounds a lot better than, “It’s not fair that I only get two weeks of paid vacation when I know for a fact that everyone else in the accounting department gets three!”. So, pay close attention to the tone of your voice and the delivery of your speech, as this can make a huge difference.
Stay calm
Talking about money can be embarrassing — which is why so many of us have stomachs that start to back up when thinking about discussing things like salaries, health plans, and paid vacation days.
But, for those moments when you feel like you’re starting to panic at the thought of asking a single question, remember this: It’s totally okay for you to have a few questions and require some clarification. Furthermore, you are entitled to receive answers that will help you make informed decisions.
Resist the urge to send yourself into a frenzy, take a deep breath, and organize your thoughts. No matter your situation, this approach will help you get the information you need in a way that appears cool, calm, and composed.
The information in our press releases, blogs, articles, testimonials, videos and presentations should be considered accurate only as of its date. We disclaim any obligation to complete or update information in this type of content, and any links or references therein to Third Party Articles or Third Party Content do not constitute our endorsement of such third party.