Here's how you can negotiate for benefits and perks alongside a salary increase.

On a personal standpoint view, I had never discussed my salary 'along with my skillsets or experience. I had just worked irrespective of my salary and been definitely awarded well. when I was a teenager I was trekking a mountain(Marunthuvalmalai) and two Sadhus tagged along on the way. They asked me if I had visited Himalayas, I said I don't have that money. The Sadhus told have you seen Mahavishnu in Anantha sayna, he is just there Goddess Lakshmi(Goddess of Wealth) just sits in his feet and takes care, he smiled and told just do what you want with sincerity , money will find its way. That day something opened up and I am the same since then. Its work and skill which is my primary - money just follows along.

Research industry standards, enumerate desired benefits, and point out your contributions. Make a rational case that shows how added perquisites improve your efficiency and contentment. Be willing to make concessions and show how these benefits are consistent with the company's objectives.

If you reach a hard stop on the salary, and it's below desired number, ask instead for vacation weeks (e.g. 4 vs 3). Or if you reach a hard stop in salary or vacation, ask for the ability to work from home 1 to 2 days a week. Lastly another area to explore is the abilty to come in early/leave early, come in late leave late to stagger the commute. Remember to add to you skills/offering that you'll mentor others (so you don't want to be out of the office 4-5 days a week if mentoring occurs best in person). The ability to think of others/the org. while negotiating for yourself is appreciated and noted.

If you fit in the below example then boom. Example: Sarah approached her manager after leading a successful project that increased company revenue. She highlighted her achievements, demonstrated her value, and secured a modest salary increase, additional remote work days, and funds for a certification course. Job done!

To negotiate for benefits and perks alongside a salary increase, start by researching industry standards and your company's policies. Prepare a list of specific benefits that matter to you, such as flexible working hours, remote work options, additional vacation days, professional development opportunities, or health and wellness programs. During the negotiation, articulate how these benefits will enhance your productivity and job satisfaction. Emphasize mutual benefits, showing how accommodating your requests can improve overall team performance. Be open to compromises and alternatives, such as phased salary increases combined with immediate perks.

This one isn't easy. There are several emotions that are getting ready to trip your smooth dialogue delivery, so rehearse it down to the when. The timing is vital. Even if it is your appraisal meeting, try to keep this point for later in the talk. Many organisations cry poor or claim the economy hasn't been that great. You need to check before the meeting if that is true of your outfit. If your employer is truly struggling, there is little point bringing the point up except with a polite prod. If the prod opens a little door, keep it open with your metaphorical toes. If it doesn't respond to that prod, this may not be the right time to ask for better.

Budget constraints are often and sadly, genuine. The grass always seems greener on the other side, so you may wonder with some scepticism why it is you who is being denied that raise. Weigh your options with caution and clinically. Leave the emotions out of the maze of negotiations for now. Be ready for the possibility that your request for a monetary raise is turned down. What then? Will you resign from the job? Will you resign yourself to another year at the same level? Or will you jostle for a little elbow room? Find out before you reach the negotiating table what your outfit mostly offers. ESOPS? Airline tickets? Better health insurance? More allowances that will cover some of your household costs? Negotiate.

We work for money. Let there be no doubt about that. The percentage of people in the workforce working only for the joy of working is... what...? Know the industry options before digging your heels in and putting in your resig if a raise is denied. Are there jobs waiting for you? Is there a slump outside? It is not a bad idea to go through job offers before you negotiate for a raise. That will give you an idea of the direction your part of the conversation ought to take. All the best!