Believe it or not, we are just 2 months away from the end of 2023 (I know, I still feel like it's March 2021). This means we are approaching the review season of

Believe it or not, we are just 2 months away from the end of 2023 (I know, I still feel like it's March 2021). This means we are approaching performance review season.

Negotiating a salary increase as a software developer during times like these (restructuring, cost of living crisis, global issues... 🤔) can feel like walking through a minefield.

This year, salary increases will be scrutinized closely, so if you want more money in your pocket, you need to approach that conversation with a solid strategy in hand.

Here are 4 key recommendations to ensure you do it the right way:

❌ Don’t... apologize.
"I’m really sorry to ask, I know the company has had a tough year."
You’re here to advocate for yourself. Don’t give your employer reasons to reject you upfront.

❌ Don’t... compare yourself to a colleague.
"I’ve been here a year longer than Mark and I know he’s already making $60,000..."
You don’t have all the information about someone else’s job or salary package. Plus, rivalry doesn’t create a good impression.

❌ Don’t... make it personal.
"We’re planning to buy a house next year and I really need extra money."
Your personal goals are important, but empathy is not a business argument, and your personal life shouldn’t influence your employer’s decision about your salary.

❌ Don’t... rely on external factors.
"Inflation is at 7%, so I need at least that."
We all feel the impact of the cost of living, but it’s not a compelling reason for them to give YOU a raise. Will you accept a pay cut when inflation goes down? 🙅‍♂️📉

Remember that the Engineer Game program includes a negotiation module that will allow you to negotiate promotions and even job changes if you don’t manage to get that raise this year.

In my profile, you have a link to take action and enhance your career.