Salary negotiation with a remote job is more about testing the waters than a straightforward bargain.

Remote work is comparatively less paid than on-site, and although many organisations are working against this practice, employers have their own strategies to negotiate a hike. Often, candidates are compelled to relocate for better compensation and benefits. But what if you could leverage better pay virtually instead of taking the trouble to relocate to deliver the exact quantum of work?

There are many challenges that factor in when it comes to the negotiation process:

Communication Barriers: Negotiating via email or video calls can be less effective than in-person discussions, as non-verbal cues and personal rapport are harder to convey and read.

Perception of Remote Work Value: The prevalent bias against remote work culture might hinder salary hike. Some companies have strict budget constraints or salary bands for remote positions that are hard to negotiate against.

Unclear Job Expectations and Metrics: Remote job roles and expectations are often vaguely defined, making it difficult to align salary expectations with job responsibilities.

Geographic Discrepancies: Remote work allows employees to live in areas with varying costs of living, making it difficult to establish a fair salary that reflects both the company's and the employee's location.

Research the Industry Pay Scale

Having a concrete idea about the remote job market would help you to polish your pitch in a way that it becomes irrefutable and legitimate. In this case, citing credible websites with real-time and valid data is the only way to calculate a compensation revision. You may want to look into the regional differences and determine whether they influence the remote work compensation structure.

Pitch Your Demand with a Realistic Anchor

Candidates quoting something absurd, unrealistic, and inexplicable do not win any special favour with the recruiters, and, in fact, such expectations only dampen credibility. This can also muddy the job offer at hand. It is necessary to set an anchor as you negotiate. The sum could be based on your last drawn, recent performance metrics, and market rates. Today, location is not a relevant parameter for determining the compensation.

Hone your E-Charisma

E-Charisma is a newly coined term that refers to the virtual skills needed to acquire a positive image. Far from being an abstract concept, it needs polished communication skills and on-screen image. This element is something to be worked on for a couple of weeks at least before you opt for a negotiation. As you talk, rely on your market research. Present a strong case in favour of you that articulates why you are deserving of that pay irrespective of your remote role.

Bring in the Perks and Benefits

If you at all reach an impasse negotiating for a monetary hike, be prepared to allude to the other perks that are part of the compensation package. This may include health benefits, paid time off, relocation stipend, upskilling, and other conveniences which could surely be brought into discussion. In the end, the added perks might level up to the compensation you desire.  

Wondering why bother to ask for a hike? If you are not satisfied with the current offer, it is only rational to ask for a fairer amount instead of waiting for the employer to offer it in the indefinite future. This also gives you an opportunity to explore other organisations and job designations in case you feel stuck in a rut. Also, a negotiation is a fine opportunity to evaluate your worth and display the achievements and skills you have managed so far. Smart negotiation certainly is a sign of a confident and deserving employee.