We all dread having to say the words we know must be uttered and wonder how we can ever find the strength to look someone in the eyes and say things like, "Well, I believe I deserve more." 

Many workers have claimed that they would rather suffer in a job they dislike than communicate with their employer. Apparently, individuals are so afraid of being judged or rejected, particularly by those in authority, that they avoid contact at all costs.

To your advantage, many managers have indicated that they like it when their workers approach them for career progression chances and ask for assistance in achieving their objectives.

Negotiation skills are an important ability to have if you want to advance in your career. Whether it be a larger income, more benefits, or new tasks and responsibilities. 

It is critical to hone your negotiating abilities. It is not more difficult to learn to wrap words around difficult messages than it is to learn a new language. It's really simpler since you don't have to start from scratch.

Rather, you must adapt and utilize the language you already know in a new way. Keeping this in mind, here are some suggestions for approaching your supervisor about your career development.

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Have a clear vision

A vision is a mental image of the future that you want to achieve. Having a vision implies having a strong feeling of purpose. It entails seeing a far bigger picture of the business or your life than merely achieving short-term goals and dealing with difficulties as they arise. 

To begin a new journey, you must first decide your destination. Before approaching your employee with queries about how to grow in your career, you must first have a clearly defined vision for yourself.

In terms of your career, where do you wish to go in the future? What do you hope to accomplish? And are you prepared to put in additional effort to reach that specific goal?

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Be honest with yourself

Employees who believe they are entitled to privileges are one of the things that employers despise the most.

To ask for further possibilities to advance in your job, you must first demonstrate to yourself that you are really passionate about your career, which you may accomplish by working exceptionally well in your present position.

You must persuade your employer that you are a loyal employee and a diligent worker, a valuable asset that your boss would be willing to invest to keep.

You must also be mindful of your own shortcomings and limits. Be brutally honest with yourself and consider your past experiences. What did you accomplish well, and what activity did you find difficult to complete? Once you've established that, you may search for additional possibilities to further your career.

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‍Search for opportunities

Before approaching an employee, you should have a clear idea of what your organization can provide you.

Working for a company that lacks a clear purpose or professional growth possibilities is a waste of time and energy. If this is the case, it may be wiser to consider changing jobs, even if it will cost you more years in your career progression than attempting or sticking with your present job.

It is good to speak with other workers and learn about the opportunities provided by the organization. Take notes and prepare questions you want to ask your employer about those chances. Be very specific about what you want and show your boss that you came prepared and know what you are talking about. 

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Prepare ahead 

You were hired for a specific reason. You absolutely provide value to the organization, and you should assist your boss to understand and acknowledge that. Some crucial elements to consider while negotiating are: 

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• The value you bring

• Your accomplishments

• Your qualifications

• Your progress

• Your skills

• Any qualities that set you apart from the rest of the team

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The goal is to maintain a confident attitude. Make a list of talking points so you can provide a solid argument for what you want. It may be beneficial to practice the discussion with a friend. 

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Arrange a meeting

The most crucial piece of advice for negotiating your job progress is to speak with your employee in person. People who dislike having direct communication with persons in positions of authority are more likely to choose virtual means of communication such as emails.

However, addressing important issues through virtual communication lines does not function effectively. Your employer has hundreds of emails coming through each week, and may easily ignore your email.

Moreover, to persuade your employer that you deserve what you're asking for, words are not enough. You want to express sentiments and emotions as well as information.

A meeting will also give you more time to convince your employer and create that personal bond. Insist on having a face-to-face meeting, if that is not possible, at least attempt to communicate by phone rather than e-mail.

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Have an open discussion with your employee

Once you've scheduled the meeting with your employee, plan out what you'll say ahead of time. Be detailed about your contribution to the organization and your progress, and emphasize significant accomplishments. 

Contrary to popular belief, bosses are delighted to learn about workers who want to advance in their professions. This not only demonstrates your loyalty as a worker but also that you have a growth mentality and are eager to offer even more to the firm.

Tell your employer what you want to accomplish and your vision for the future, and ask about the options available at the organization and what you need to do to progress in your career.

However, be very cautious while asking this question. If your boss says, "Keep doing what you're doing," it's advisable to ask the same question again. If he repeats the same response, this should raise a red flag for you.

Either that manager does not have a clear vision for the organization, or if he does, that vision excludes you. This should serve as a warning sign that it's time for you to consider looking for new employment.

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Realize that the negotiation doesn't end with the first rejection

On your initial attempt, you may be rejected or offered much less than what you expected. If indeed the offer was not what you were looking for, the second round of discussions is recommended.

Do not be disheartened; even if you do not get what you want, it is probable that this experience has taught you something about yourself and the firm, as well as what you may do better next time.