A promotion: Strike when rumors of reorganization swirl—such as your boss preparing to depart and being replaced by a new leader, or whispers of a company takeover gaining traction. Take the initiative by scheduling a meeting with your direct manager (N+1) after clearly outlining your personal goals. Timing is everything: Stay attuned to internal company shifts to seize these prime opportunities.
A raise: Aim for September, before annual budgets are locked in (or January if your company follows a different fiscal year, like many UK or US firms). By the time year-end performance reviews roll around, the overall budget for increases is typically already set, making it too late to negotiate effectively.
Training: Request at year-end, especially for general skills like English, management, or IT courses—particularly if a raise was off the table in September. You can also ask mid-year if handed a new responsibility.
A bonus: Negotiate before accepting a new project. Don't delay, thinking you'll circle back later—if you're tapped for it, you're in demand, tipping the power balance in your favor. Clearly explain if it demands overtime, weekends, or canceled vacations, especially outside your usual duties. Reserve this ask for truly exceptional demands to avoid diluting its impact.
Part-time work: Pitch it when company performance is strong. In tough times, your manager will hesitate to disrupt team operations.
Insights courtesy of Thierry Krief, President of NegoAndCo, www.negoandco.com
