Mainly due to the fact that every job I've worked since now would have openly laughed in my face at the request. Or they were so toxic an enviorment that I was literally afraid to ask in case of retaliation, and it just wasn't worth it. Anytime I've felt I've reached the point where I need to be making more money, I've just found a new job without even attempting to negotiate with my employer.
Things are different with my current position. All things considered, I enjoy it. My team is excellent and so is my supervisor. The work I do is fulfilling, and most importantly this job never, ever tries to more than that – a job. I'm actively encouraged to take leave, have very flexible hours, and telework full time. I understand I'm living the dream for most people. So, I don't want to just up and leave. However, due to insane rental prices in my area, I'm being priced out. I need to make more money in order to stay, and frankly the nature of my job is one that requires more money to keep me here long-term. I essentially have two full-time positions that have been mashed into one – very challenging to manage expectations of two distinct clients that I'm really only able to give partial hours too, despite their full time needs. However, this is nothing new to me so I manage things well. But, I think they would be challenged to find someone else to fill this position as well as I do.
Long story short, I want to negotiate in a serious way for a salary increase in order to stay here. But I've no clue how to. I know if it was in my direct supervisors power she would grant it in a heartbeat. However, I work for the state I live in, and everything salary related is controlled through HR. My HR department is a complete enigma to me, honestly a black box scenario. They've no clue who I am and what my value is, so I'm concerned they wouldn't entertain negotiation at all. We are just numbers to them after all.
So, any advice? Am I just screwed here, despite my desire to stay? Has anyone successfully negotiated in a similar situation and want to share their strategy?
I also realize this is the antiwork sub, and trust me I'm not loyal to the organization. If I need to leave, I will in order to be paid my worth. This place is just the only one that's ever treated me as a human with compassion so I'm hesitant to just up and leave if I don't have to. Considering my career, I doubt I'll find another position that's as good for my mental health.
Thanks in advance for any advice!