How do you prepare for a salary negotiation with a potential employer from a different culture?

1 Know your worth

Before you enter a salary negotiation, you need to do your research and know your worth in the market. You can use online tools, industry reports, or personal contacts to find out the average salary range for your role, experience, and location. You should also consider your unique skills, achievements, and contributions that make you stand out from other candidates. Knowing your worth will help you set a realistic and confident salary expectation that reflects your value.

2 Understand the culture

Different cultures have different approaches, preferences, and norms when it comes to salary negotiation. For example, some cultures may value directness and assertiveness, while others may prefer indirectness and humility. Some cultures may expect you to negotiate hard and show your interest, while others may consider it rude or greedy. Some cultures may offer a fixed salary package, while others may have more room for flexibility and benefits. You need to understand the culture of your potential employer and adapt your style and strategy accordingly. You can research the culture online, ask for advice from people who have worked in that culture, or observe how the employer communicates and behaves during the interview process.

3 Prepare your pitch

Once you have a clear idea of your worth and the culture, you need to prepare your pitch for the salary negotiation. Your pitch should include your salary expectation, your rationale, and your evidence. You should also anticipate the possible objections or questions from the employer and prepare your responses. Your pitch should be concise, clear, and respectful. You should also practice your pitch out loud and get feedback from someone who can give you an objective and constructive opinion.

4 Choose the right time and medium

Timing and medium are important factors in salary negotiation across cultures. You need to choose the right time and medium to initiate or respond to the salary negotiation. You should avoid bringing up the salary topic too early or too late in the hiring process. You should also respect the employer's preference and availability for the medium of communication. Some employers may prefer to discuss the salary over the phone, email, or video call, while others may want to meet in person. You should also consider the advantages and disadvantages of each medium and prepare accordingly. For example, if you negotiate over email, you may have more time to think and write your message, but you may also lose some of the nonverbal cues and rapport that you can build in a face-to-face conversation.

5 Be flexible and respectful

Finally, you need to be flexible and respectful during the salary negotiation across cultures. You should not assume that your potential employer has the same mindset, values, and expectations as you. You should also not take anything personally or get offended by the employer's behavior or response. You should be open to listen, learn, and compromise, as long as you do not sell yourself short or accept an unfair offer. You should also express your appreciation and enthusiasm for the opportunity and maintain a positive and professional relationship with the employer.

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?