Salary negotiations are an essential part of every job interview, but many people are afraid to express their ideas. Why does money remain a taboo? What is behind this fear – outdated beliefs or a lack of self-confidence?
Historically, there has long been a widespread belief that money is not something to talk about. This belief has become entrenched in many people’s minds and ensures that the topic of salary is often avoided in public discussions. It seems as if it is an unwritten law that personal financial matters should not be discussed. This mentality is particularly strong in Germany. Many people find the topic of salary uncomfortable and are unsure how to communicate their ideas.
Another aspect is the self-esteem of the candidates. Many people do not know their own worth or have difficulty recognizing it. Applicants over 50 in particular often show remarkable reluctance when it comes to discussing their salary. They often seem to be happier with a lower income and are willing to compromise rather than clearly formulate their demands. This could be due in some ways to past experiences where stability and security were often more important than pay.
Many young people tend to overestimate their abilities and their worth.
On the other hand, there are many young people who tend to overestimate their abilities and their worth. They often ask for salaries that are disproportionate to their actual experience and the requirements of the position. This can create tension in the negotiation process and give the impression that the young generation does not have a realistic idea of the salaries that are common in the industry.
For us as recruiters, it is crucial to address these issues openly. We need to help our candidates to identify and communicate their own values. This includes informing them about market rates and industry salaries. We encourage them to clearly present their achievements and qualifications and to prepare to present them in the negotiation interview. This often requires intensive self-reflection and overcoming inner inhibitions.
Open discussion promotes transparency.
An open discussion about salary can also help promote a culture of transparency. Companies benefit when candidates are clear about their expectations and recruiters incorporate these into the negotiation process. This leads to a win-win situation where both employers and employees leave the negotiation feeling good.
Overall, salary negotiation remains a sensitive topic that presents many hurdles. However, it is of utmost importance to break down these barriers and make the conversation about money an integral part of the application process. By reducing the shame and discomfort around this topic, we can help candidates better assess and represent their achievements and value. This is the only way they can achieve fair salaries that match their qualifications and experience.
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