What's the best way to determine your skills' worth?

1 Compare job descriptions

One way to get a sense of your skills' worth is to compare job descriptions that match your role, industry, and location. Look for the common skills, qualifications, and responsibilities that employers are looking for, and how they are weighted and prioritized. This can help you identify the most in-demand and valuable skills in your field, as well as the minimum and maximum requirements for your position.

2 Use salary websites

Another way to find out your skills' worth is to use salary websites that provide data on average and median salaries for different jobs, industries, and locations. You can filter the results by various factors, such as experience level, education, certification, company size, and performance. Salary websites can give you a ballpark figure of what your skills are worth in the market, but keep in mind that they may not reflect the latest trends, variations, and nuances of your specific situation.

3 Consult your network

A third way to determine your skills' worth is to consult your network of peers, mentors, and contacts in your field. You can ask them for their opinions, insights, and advice on what your skills are worth, and how they have negotiated their salaries in the past. You can also learn from their successes and mistakes, and get a realistic and honest perspective on the market conditions, expectations, and standards in your industry.

4 Evaluate your performance

A fourth way to assess your skills' worth is to evaluate your performance and achievements in your current or previous roles. You can use metrics, feedback, testimonials, and awards to demonstrate your impact, value, and potential to your employer or potential employer. You can also highlight your unique skills, strengths, and contributions that set you apart from other candidates or employees. Evaluating your performance can help you showcase your skills' worth and justify your salary expectations.

5 Update your skills

A fifth way to increase your skills' worth is to update your skills and stay relevant and competitive in your field. You can do this by taking courses, certifications, workshops, or online learning platforms that can enhance your knowledge, skills, and credentials. You can also seek opportunities to expand your skills, such as taking on new projects, tasks, or roles, or volunteering for causes or organizations that align with your interests and goals. Updating your skills can help you boost your confidence, credibility, and bargaining power in salary negotiations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?