How to Negotiate Salary Increases In Healthcare

Professionals in the healthcare industry don't often engage in salary negotiation. While these professionals will likely ask several questions about their job duties and responsibilities, they leave their salaries up to their employers. Healthcare workers are also less likely to ask for raises after they've been on the job for some time which means they likely don't receive the pay they deserve compared to seasoned professionals in other industries.

One of the reasons medical professionals are not particularly skilled in salary negotiation are fellowships and residencies, which are positions doctors and other healthcare workers take after graduating from school. The salaries or stipends for these positions are not negotiable and professionals often feel that their future positions will not leave room for negotiation either.

If you want to know how to negotiate your salary in a way that is fair and respectful for both you and your employer, here are some suggestions to keep in mind.

Do Your Research

Before you start the salary negotiation process, you should research the salary range you should be asking for based on your position and duties. It's also a good idea to see what professionals in similar roles earn and to learn about the benefits that are attached to similar positions. This will give you a realistic idea of what your employer is willing to provide so you'll know which of your salary-related requests will likely be honored.

Don't Make Money the Only Motive

Even though a higher salary is definitely a reason to look for another healthcare position, you should clarify to your employer that more money is not your only career goal. When you're interviewing for a new position, avoid discussing your salary directly unless your potential employer brings it up. Talking about money too soon could give your boss the impression that you're only pursuing the job because of the current pay or because of your plans to ask for a higher salary later.

Be Open to Negotiation

When it comes to salary negotiation, you shouldn't lead the conversation by mentioning a definite dollar amount. Give your employer a salary range that would be acceptable to you based on your qualifications and the years you've been on the job. You can also mention certain benefits you'd like to receive as part of your salary package. When your employer sees that you're flexible, they may be more likely to offer you a salary that is within your desired range. Be prepared to mention pay and benefits-related information for similar positions at your healthcare facility to let your employer know that you're prepared to negotiate fairly.

Make Your Value Evident

Every healthcare professional has skills, abilities, and professional certifications that make them eligible for positions in their field of expertise. However, employers are usually more willing to adequately compensate individuals who bring evident value to the organization. Think about the professional contributions you can bring to the healthcare facility and consider ways to accomplish these goals without incurring additional costs for your place of employment. Make yourself stand out by clearly explaining how you can benefit your workplace in a way your competitors may not be able to.

Take Care of All the Legal Aspects of Salary Negotiation

Once you've researched your desired salary range and drafted a plan to help you stay on track during the negotiation process, let your lawyer review your contract to see if the job offer is ideal for you. Your attorney can also show you which parts of the contract will offer you more flexibility, so you'll know which points to emphasize in your negotiation discussion.

Display Your Confidence

When you discuss salary negotiations, be confident to boost the chances that your employer will consider your terms. Remind your employer that you bring exceptional skill, bedside manner, or extensive research to the healthcare facility and would benefit the company significantly. If you're not confident when asking for more money, your employer may conclude that you don't feel that you deserve a raise.

Don't Forget to Have Gratitude

When you're offered a job at a healthcare facility you're considering, chances are you've interviewed extensively and have researched the company's philosophies and opportunities for advancement. The hiring managers have invested a considerable amount of time interviewing you and reviewing your credentials as well. Express gratitude for the fact that the medical establishment considered you for the position and let the hiring staff know that you're excited about the potential of accepting the job. Even if the hiring process doesn't work out the way you hoped and you end up declining the job offer, it is important to be gracious and professional to maintain a positive reputation within your industry.

Final Thoughts

It is important to keep in mind that many medical professionals do not receive training when it comes to advocating for fair salaries. If you want to advance in your current position or if you're seriously considering a new job offer, you should know that negotiation is a standard step in the hiring process. Using the right tools will increase the chances that you'll be paid fairly for the rewarding and necessary work you do.