What do you do if you want to negotiate additional perks alongside your salary or raise in Quality Assurance?

1 Research First

Before you even broach the subject of negotiating additional perks with your employer, do your homework. Research what is standard in the QA industry regarding benefits and perks. Look into what competitors offer their employees and understand the market rate for someone with your skills and experience. Having this information at your fingertips will not only boost your confidence but also provide a solid foundation for your negotiation. It shows that you are informed and serious about the discussion, which can help sway the outcome in your favor.

2 Timing Matters

The timing of your negotiation is as crucial as the negotiation itself. Aim for a moment when you have leverage, such as after the successful completion of a significant project or during a performance review when your contributions are fresh in your manager's mind. Avoid times when the company may be facing financial difficulties or during periods of high stress within your team. Choosing the right time to discuss additional perks can make a significant difference in the receptiveness of your employer to your requests.

3 Be Specific

When you're ready to negotiate, be clear and specific about what you're asking for. Instead of vaguely requesting 'more perks,' identify particular benefits that interest you, such as remote work options, additional professional development opportunities, or extra vacation days. Tailoring your requests to align with your personal and professional goals shows that you've thought through what's important to you and how these perks will help you contribute more effectively to the company.

4 Communicate Value

In any negotiation, especially in QA where results are everything, it's essential to communicate your value to the company. Highlight how your work has improved processes, saved time, or increased efficiency. When discussing perks, relate them back to your performance and explain how they will enable you to maintain or improve upon your contributions. This approach shifts the conversation from what the company can do for you to what you can do for the company with these additional benefits.

5 Consider Alternatives

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the exact perks you want may not be on the table. In such cases, be prepared with alternative options. If you can't get additional vacation days, perhaps you could negotiate for more flexible work hours or the ability to work from home on certain days. Being flexible and creative with your requests can lead to a compromise that satisfies both you and your employer.

6 Follow Up

After your negotiation meeting, it's important to follow up. Whether you received an immediate answer or were told that your requests would need further consideration, sending a polite email to thank your employer for the discussion can keep the lines of communication open. If you've come to an agreement, this follow-up can also serve as an opportunity to document what was discussed and ensure that both parties are clear on the new terms of your employment.

7 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?