Negotiating salary is a crucial skill for lawyers, whether you're a fresh graduate or an experienced practitioner. Approaching this conversation with confidence and preparation can lead to better compensation packages and in turn, job satisfaction. Here are some strategies to ensure you navigate this process effectively:
Before entering negotiations, gather information on industry standards. We can provide you with information which show legal industry salary surveys to benchmark typical remuneration for your role, experience level, and location. Knowledge of what others in similar positions are earning will provide a solid foundation for your discussions.
Understand and articulate your unique value proposition. Highlight your specialised skills, notable achievements, and contributions to the firm. Have examples ready of your success in the past 12 months. Quantifying your impact, such as your billable targets being met or exceeded, bringing on new clients and junior lawyers you have mentored, can really strengthen your position.
Timing your salary discussion can significantly impact the outcome. Although many firms conduct reviews in June or July, it can be equally important to initiate this conversation beforehand. Discussing with your Supervising Partner the criteria for justifying a raise in advance, allows you to proactively work towards achieving those goals.This preparation ensures you can provide concrete examples during the review, demonstrating how you've met or exceeded expectations.
Salary is just one component of compensation. Be prepared to discuss other benefits, such as bonus schemes, gym subsidies, additional annual leave, technology and equipment and even added flexibility.If the base salary offer is lower than expected, negotiate for additional perks that can add value to your overall compensation and your weekly out of pocket expenses.
When discussing salary, be direct but diplomatic. Clearly state your salary expectations and provide the rationale behind your figures. Practice your pitch to ensure you come across as confident, not confrontational. Remember, this is a negotiation, not a demand.
Expect some resistance and be ready to negotiate. Prepare a range that starts with your ideal salary and have a lower limit in mind that you would accept. This gives you flexibility and shows that you are willing to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement. But be careful to not start too high to avoid appearing greedy or out of touch with market norms. If you have a specific figure in mind and want to run it past us first, we will be able to provide you honest feedback of its compatibility within the market.
Regardless of the outcome, maintain professionalism throughout the negotiation process. If your initial request is denied, ask for feedback on how you can improve to meet your desired compensation in the future. Showing a willingness to grow and adapt can leave a positive impression, even if the immediate result is not what you hoped for.
Once you reach an agreement, ensure all terms are documented in writing. This prevents any misunderstandings and provides a reference for both parties.
By approaching salary discussions with preparation, clarity, and professionalism, you can secure compensation that reflects your skills and contributions while fostering positive relationships with your employers.
Authors - Bianca Davies, Kirra Gaskell