Personal Advancement

Promotions and Money:
How to Tackle Two Tough Topics

The boss thinks you’re a prime candidate to join the management team. Does it pay to talk about money upfront or are you just shooting yourself in the foot?

By Angela MacKenzie
[ 2009-03-04 ]

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Talking about money usually involves a bit of dance says Barbara Hughes, a Vancouver-based human resources consultant and career coach.

You don’t want to underestimate how much your abilities are worth, she says, but you definitely don’t want to overshoot a company’s salary range for a position either. “It’s a bit tricky because they’re gauging you about what your tolerance is,” she says.

Charmin Rockwell of Career and Employment Counselling Services recommends taking the time to do a bit of research before accepting a job offer. “Don’t ever go in without knowing what people in your industry are being paid,” Rockwell advises from her office in Morinville, Alberta.

Do your research

To find out, tap into information put together by industry organizations and professional associations that conduct salary surveys. A quick online search will help you find the industry group in your province or city. If the information is not available on the group’s website, contact the association. Rockwell also suggests visiting the Service Canada website www.jobfutures.ca or provincially run websites such as www.alis.alberta.ca by the Alberta Learning Information Service. Websites like www.payscale.com and www.salary.com can also help you evaluate a job offer or pay raise, Hughes says.


Timing is everything

If questions about money are brought up too early in the hiring process, Hughes says managers may perceive that as a reflection of a candidate’s primary motivation for applying for the job, whether it is true or not. “Sometimes you can ask in advance, but it’s one of those delicate things where you have to test the waters,” she says.

Hughes recommends asking about a position’s salary either very early in the process when you’re not yet a serious candidate for the job, asking others in the company who may know, or simply waiting for the hiring manager to bring up the subject first.

In general, you’re in a better position to negotiate the final figure, Hughes says, if you know the company has made up its mind that you’re the one. “Just be clear in your own mind what you’re asking for and what you’re willing to settle with,” Rockwell says.

Think you’re ready to apply for a better job? Read about how to do it right:

Are You Promotion Worthy?

Going for a Promotion: How to Make Your Move

Promotion Checklist

Combating a Negative Professional Image

Promotion Plan: Going From Invisible to Indispensable

Add Up Your Skills to Multiply Your Chances

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