Business & Money

Mastering the Art of Salary Negotiation: Insights from Financial Experts

Published

2 years ago

August 14, 2023

Mastering the Art of Salary Negotiation

Navigating the complex realm of salary negotiation strategies can be both daunting and rewarding. It’s a critical skill that can significantly impact your financial future. This article, guided by insights from financial experts, delves into the strategies, mindset, and tactics that can empower you to negotiate your salary effectively.

Research and Preparation about Salary Negotiation Strategies

Before entering a negotiation, arm yourself with information. Begin by researching industry standards and market trends for your role and location. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn can provide valuable data on average salaries. This research provides you with a solid foundation for your negotiation, allowing you to set realistic expectations.

Understand Your Worth

Your worth encompasses not only your skills and experience but also your unique contributions to the organization. Clearly define your value proposition by highlighting your accomplishments, relevant certifications, and any specialized training you’ve undertaken. Demonstrating your impact can give you leverage during salary discussions.

Timing is Key

Timing plays a pivotal role in salary negotiations Strategies. Initiate the conversation after you’ve successfully completed a project, received a commendation, or achieved a milestone. This positions you as an asset to the company, making your request more compelling.

Adopt a Win-Win Mindset

Effective negotiation is about finding common ground that benefits both parties. Approach the negotiation with a positive attitude, emphasizing your commitment to the company’s growth and success. When your employer sees you as invested in the organization’s prosperity, they’re more likely to consider your request.

Practice Effective Communication

Clear and concise communication is vital during negotiations. Craft a persuasive pitch that outlines your achievements and the reasons you deserve a higher salary. Emphasize your dedication to continuous improvement and your enthusiasm for taking on additional responsibilities.

Be Flexible

While you should have a target salary in mind, be open to negotiation. Consider non-monetary benefits like additional vacation days, remote work options, professional development opportunities, or performance bonuses. Flexibility demonstrates your willingness to collaborate and can lead to a more favorable outcome.

Practice Active Listening

Listening is just as essential as speaking during negotiations. Pay close attention to your employer’s responses and concerns. Address any objections calmly and provide relevant examples to demonstrate your readiness to overcome challenges.

Leverage Competing Offers

If you have multiple job offers or a robust potential offer from another company, use this as leverage. Express your desire to stay with your current employer but emphasize that you need a competitive offer to make an informed decision. This approach can prompt your current employer to match or exceed the competing offer.

Seek Long-Term Growth

Focus on your career trajectory rather than just your immediate salary. Inquire about opportunities for advancement, performance reviews, and salary growth over time. This approach underscores your commitment to your professional development and shows that you’re thinking about the company’s long-term success.

Follow Up Professionally

After the negotiation, regardless of the outcome, maintain professionalism. If you’re successful, express gratitude for your consideration. If the negotiation didn’t result in the desired increase, express appreciation for the opportunity to discuss the matter and ask about future possibilities.

Mastering the art of salary negotiation requires a combination of research, self-confidence, effective communication, and a win-win mindset. Financial experts stress that this skill can have a lasting impact on your earning potential and overall economic well-being. By employing these strategies, you can approach salary negotiations with confidence and secure a compensation package that reflects your true worth.

Contact STATT Financial: info@stattfs.com

Business

The Last of Us” Season 2: Cast and Creators Share Insights at SXSW

Published

1 week ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

The cast and creators of the highly anticipated second season of “The Last of Us” gathered at SXSW to discuss the upcoming season. The panel featured cast members Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), Gabriel Luna (Tommy), Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), Isabela Merced (Dina), and Young Mazino (Jesse), along with co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin.

Navigating Expectations and Surprising Fans

With the immense success of season one, Druckmann and Mazin acknowledged the pressure to deliver a worthy follow-up. Mazin emphasized their approach to cater to both fans of the game and newcomers to the series. “We try and think about the people who have played the game and make sure that we keep them on their toes and a little bit surprised,” Mazin stated. Druckmann highlighted the emotional weight of adapting “The Last of Us Part II,” emphasizing the dedication of the entire production team to doing justice to the source material.

A Glimpse into Season 2

Attendees were treated to a trailer for season two, offering a glimpse into the evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie five years after the events of the first season. Ramsey described the changed dynamic, hinting at a rift between the characters. Pascal added that their relationship is in “a different place” and that it is “fucking heartbreaking”.

Big Ideas: Tribalism, Love, and Loss

The creators delved into the central themes of season two, including tribalism, the destructive nature of love, and the consequences of loss. Druckmann explained that the season explores the complexities of community and the dehumanization that can occur when groups clash. Mazin emphasized the escalation of these themes, highlighting the potential for isolation and the lengths characters will go to protect their loved ones.

New and Expanded Characters

The panel also touched on new characters and expanded roles in season two. Gabriel Luna discussed Tommy’s evolution into a father, emphasizing how it solidifies his purpose and strengthens his commitment to protecting his family and community. The introduction of new characters like Gail, played by Catherine O’Hara, and the expansion of existing characters like Isaac, played by Jeffrey Wright, promise to add depth and nuance to the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of Joe Pantoliano as Eugene, a character mentioned but not seen in the game, offers a rewarding experience for longtime fans.

Music as a Binding Force

Music continues to play a significant role in “The Last of Us,” particularly in the relationship between Joel and Ellie. Ramsey shared that music serves as a bonding experience for the characters, mirroring the connection between the actors on set. The guitar, a symbol of Joel’s promise to teach Ellie, takes on a more prominent role in season two.

Diving into the Game

The actors discussed their individual approaches to engaging with the source material. Kaitlyn Dever shared her experience playing the game with her father, while Young Mazino admitted to playing the second game up to a certain point.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.

Whether you’re a badge holder or not, SXSW 2025 offers something for everyone. From delicious food to live music and interactive experiences, there’s no shortage of fun to be had without spending a fortune. So, grab your friends and enjoy the best of Austin without a badge!

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

Business

No Badge? No Problem: Free SXSW Events

Published

1 week ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

SXSW, one of the world’s most vibrant festivals, is underway in Austin, Texas, from March 7 to 15, 2025. While official badges can be pricey, there are plenty of free events and activities that allow everyone to join in on the fun without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best free events at SXSW 2025:

Free Food and Drinks

Argentinian Barbecue at Tech N’ Fest
- Enjoy a fusion of Argentinian and Texas barbecue, along with complimentary wine and beer, at Buenos Cafe on March 7.

Love is Blind at Lucille
- Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Netflix’s “Love is Blind” with free coffee and cocktails at Lucille on Rainey Street.
Free Pastries and Non-Alcoholic Beer
- Handsome’s and Helium Mobile are hosting a gathering with free pastries and non-alcoholic beer, featuring DJ Jah Karma.
Mionetto Salone
- Experience Italian culture with free spritzes and Prosecco at the Mex-Ar Museum.

Interactive Experiences

Whataburger’s Museum of Art
- Explore hundreds of pieces of fan art and interactive features at Wanderlust Wine Co. on March 8-9.
Barbie Birthday Cake Mochi
- Enjoy free mochi ice cream at the SX Registrant booth from March 7 to 12.
Artisan Mercado@SXSW
- Discover local artisans and their wares at 419 Congress Ave. on March 7..

Music and Entertainment

Rolling Stone’s Future of Music Showcase
- Catch live music performances at ACL Live from March 11 to 14.

Taiwan Beats Day Party
- Enjoy Taiwanese hip-hop performances and cuisine at Seven on East 7th Street.
Something To Feel X SXSW Rnb Party
- Dance the night away at 612 W 4th St on March 7.

Networking and Community Events

K-Content Night 2025 @ SXSW
- Enjoy free dinner and drinks at Parlor & Yard on March 8.
SXSW Creator & Publisher Happy Hour
- Network with industry leaders at Chisos Boot Company on March 8.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.

Business

A New Approach to Family Planning in Houston

Published

4 weeks ago

February 18, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Houston families are increasingly turning to pre-planning funerals, a trend that reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of advance preparation. This shift is driven by several key factors that are reshaping how Houstonians approach end-of-life planning.

Financial Considerations

Pre-planning offers significant financial advantages. The median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial in 2023 was $8,300 nationally, while a funeral with cremation cost $6,280. By pre-planning, Houston families can lock in current prices, potentially saving thousands of dollars. In Texas, the funeral industry is expected to grow to $1.4 billion by 2025, indicating rising costs that make early planning even more crucial.

Emotional Benefits

Pre-planning alleviates the emotional burden on families during a difficult time. A survey revealed that 63% of policy owners have recommended pre-arranging to others or plan to do so, highlighting the peace of mind it brings. By making decisions in advance, families can focus on celebrating their loved one’s life rather than struggling with last-minute arrangements.

Customization and Choice

Houston’s diverse community brings unique perspectives to legacy planning. Pre-planning allows individuals to tailor their final arrangements to their personal preferences, cultural traditions, and religious beliefs. This customization ensures that one’s final wishes are honored and can include choices about burial, cremation, or even emerging options like green funerals, which 68% of people expressed interest in exploring.

Industry Trends in Houston

Houston is at the forefront of funeral industry innovation, particularly in the natural burial movement. The city’s funeral homes are adapting to changing consumer preferences, with 52% of people nationally having attended a funeral at a non-traditional location. This trend is likely to continue, with Houston funeral homes offering more diverse and personalized services.

Steps to Pre-Plan

Reflect on personal preferences for service type, burial or cremation, and cultural customs.
Discuss plans with family members to ensure understanding and agreement.
Research local funeral providers, considering reputation and pricing.
Prepare necessary documents, including advance directives.
Make arrangements with a chosen funeral home, selecting specific details of the service.

By taking these steps, Houston families can ensure their legacies are preserved while reducing the emotional and financial stress on their loved ones. As the funeral industry in Texas continues to grow, with 1,738 funeral homes employing 8,650 people statewide2, pre-planning emerges as a wise decision for those looking to secure peace of mind for themselves and their families.