How You Should Negotiate New Assignments

freelanceWelcome to the gig economy. More and more people are working for themselves for multiple companies. The trend is accelerating to the point that most believe it will become the dominant form of employment within the next 25 years. as a result the importance of negotiating a fair rate and relationship for your work is paramount. Here’s what to keep in mind during your next negotiation with a client:

  • Remember, it’s agile. You’ll be expected to contribute on day one. Therefore, your negotiation should be based on a well-defined, realistic, and well-communicated plan of what you can achieve, by when, and how.
  • Do your homework. Take the time to get to know the organization in advance — its business, strategy, values, and relevant news — and bring real organizational insight to the negotiation.
  • Establish your value. Negotiate from a position of power by making it indisputably clear — through your portfolio or client recommendations, for example — that you’re at the top of your field and will do a great job.
  • Know the value of the work to the organization. Smart negotiators know what success will provide the company, and what failure will cost.