Skip to content

Annual mandatory salary negotiations

Annual mandatory negotiations (known in France as NAO) are a key moment in companies with more than 50 employees. They address crucial topics such as salaries, working hours, and professional equality. Discover how to optimize your preparation and maximize your chances of success.

What are annual mandatory negotiations?

These negotiations are governed by law and take place every year in the relevant companies. They involve union representatives and management. The topics covered include:

  • Salary policy.
  • Sharing of added value.
  • Working conditions.
  • Professional equality between women and men.

Legal basis

Annual mandatory negotiations are regulated by labor law. The framework varies by country — in France, for example, articles L.2242-1 et seq. of the Labor Code govern the process. Consult the official text on Légifrance.

Why these negotiations matter

Stakes for employees

These negotiations allow employees to have their demands heard, particularly regarding:

  • Salary increases.
  • Improved working conditions.
  • Recognition of their commitment.

Practical tip

Keep a log of your achievements and successes throughout the year. This will allow you to present concrete arguments during discussions.

Stakes for the company

For companies, these negotiations are an opportunity to strengthen employee engagement and ensure lasting industrial harmony.

What to avoid

Underestimating the importance of these negotiations can lead to widespread dissatisfaction and harm productivity.

Mistakes to avoid when asking for a raise

According to a recent article in Les Échos, some common mistakes can sabotage your chances of success:

  1. Playing on emotions
  2. Don't bring up personal problems to justify a raise. Stay factual and focused on your professional contributions.

  3. Example: "I managed to increase the team's productivity by 20% this year."

  4. Comparing yourself to colleagues

  5. Direct comparisons can be poorly received.

  6. Prefer to highlight your own achievements.

  7. Asking for an unreasonable amount

  8. Experts recommend aiming for a realistic increase, between 3 and 5%, depending on the company's economic situation.

  9. Threatening to leave the company

  10. This strategy is risky and can damage your credibility.

  11. Lacking preparation

  12. Find out about the financial health of your company and prepare arguments based on your added value.

In numbers

According to Les Échos, an average salary increase falls between 1.5% and 5%.

How to prepare well

Analyze the economic context

  • Research inflation and salary trends in your sector.
  • Consult your company's financial results.

Prepare your arguments

  • List your successes and contributions.
  • Highlight quantified data (e.g., "+15% in revenue generated through my project").

Concrete example

Use tools like Epimoni30 to analyze your skills and highlight your strengths.

Best practices during the negotiation

  • Stay calm and professional.
  • Listen carefully to the other party's arguments.
  • Propose solutions or compromises if necessary.

What to avoid

Adopting a defensive or aggressive attitude can undermine your chances of success.

Conclusion

Annual negotiations are a valuable opportunity for employees and companies alike. Good preparation, factual arguments, and a professional attitude are the keys to success.

To go further, explore other articles on Epimoni30 and try our CV and job offer analysis services.