Asking for high salary and not backing down!
Last week I met with two recruiters who approached me. The first one chased me. I had ignore him for a couple of weeks, but he insisted. I know I was a perfect for the role. I've done it, I know the job well, the vibes, the realities, etc. It's a Sr. Program Director role, leading a new BU, I'd be managing 2-3 other Program Directors, and a few Sr & Junior PMs. They had a range of $120K-$125K. Tf range is that. Recruiter apologized sheepishly, said he knew. Anyway, I told the recruiter that's not aligned with the responsibilities and I compared the salary to similar Director job postings at the same company in other disciplines, telling him the range should be the same as those, if not more, which was $160K. ha! I'd be in charge of Delivery after all. I know, but I felt inspired. To be honest, I did not want that job. It's a parallel move and I rather not unless they make it worth my while.
The second one required far more technical experience than my background. I was surprised they reached out to me. In-house recruiter acknowledged this, and said they are looking specifically for my experience because those with my career path succeed in their company. Cool. We had a great conversation and I could tell this company was a mess, with a lot of people management, juniors that need to be raised and I always take on. I've raised way too many juniors in my time. I asked for their range, they didn't want to give it, so I said ok $150K. I would have wanted that job, and would have negotiated down to $130K I think.
I've not heard from either, unsurprisingly. And while I know my numbers was high, I stand by them. I see that PM salaries are being brought down, and here I am going high, but I still demand my value. Day in and day out I see PMs maneuvering every aspect of a company to deliver the service/product, always behind the scenes. Seldom receiving appropriate compensation, or accolades. Frankly, $150-160K isn't as high as it sounds, cost of life considered, it's a lot less in real value. For the first company, I actually think I should have said $180-$200K!
I figured if some of us ask for too much, then most of you should get the right amount. Joke's aside, I hope you're all not selling your time for less than it's worth. I know we need jobs, but don't shoot your future self in the foot by lowering your worth, and take pride in your work. I'm often brought on when things have gone sideways, and 90% of the time it's because there was no Sr. PM m'ing the p.
Ps: this is for those with a good track record, of course. If you are constantly failing, well.. take what they offer you, and get better.
ETA: Canada, non-technical PM.