Negotiate Your Salary in 2025: Start the Conversation Early

As the job market continues to evolve in 2025, so too must your approach to salary negotiation. With a majority of U.S. workers (56%) planning to seek new employment, it's crucial to be proactive in discussing your compensation. Alison Fragale, a professor of organization psychology and author of "Likeable Badass," offers three key tips to help you negotiate your salary effectively in 2025.



1. Know what you want and why you deserve it
- Before entering a salary negotiation, determine the salary figure you're hoping to achieve. Research industry standards and market rates using resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Levels.fyi, ZipRecruiter, and Payscale to support your desired salary.
- Quantify your contributions and achievements to demonstrate your value to the company. For example, Fragale suggests saying, "I have had 218 conversations with interested applicants to the organization" or "I have attended 43 recruiting events" to illustrate your impact.
- Be prepared to articulate why you believe your desired salary is reasonable, referencing your research and qualifications.

2. Consider the other party's perspective
- To make a compelling case for a raise, focus on the value you bring to the company. The best justifications are always in terms of what's a win for the other party.
- Highlight your unique contributions and how they align with the company's objectives. For instance, if your company is expanding its market share, you might say, "Given my role in driving sales and customer acquisition, I believe my compensation should reflect the value I bring to our growth strategy."
- Be open to discussing other aspects of your compensation package, such as benefits or bonuses, to find a mutually beneficial agreement.



3. Start the conversation early
- Don't wait until you're desperate for an answer to initiate a salary discussion. Begin the conversation early in the year, and ask your manager when you should follow up again.
- By starting the conversation early, you allow time for your employer to negotiate with others on your behalf, if necessary. This approach also helps you avoid feeling bitter or resentful if you don't receive an immediate response.
- Be patient and persistent in pursuing your desired salary, but remain flexible and open to negotiation.



In conclusion, to effectively negotiate your salary in 2025, be proactive, well-prepared, and open to discussion. By following these tips and starting the conversation early, you'll increase your chances of securing a competitive salary that reflects your value and contributions.