At Gosoft, our mission is to revolutionise the job market by providing a referral-based talent placement platform that empowers employees and helps companies find the best talent. As part of our commitment to helping job seekers make informed decisions, we’re exploring the topic of employment contracts and what you can negotiate besides salary.

In South Africa, employment contracts often include standard clauses that outline the terms of your employment. However, many job seekers don’t realise that they can negotiate these terms to better align with their needs and expectations. Here are 20 things you can negotiate in your employment contract:

1. Job Title: Make sure your job title accurately reflects your role and responsibilities.
2. Working Hours: Negotiate your working hours to align with your lifestyle and personal commitments.
3. Annual Leave: Discuss the amount of annual leave you would like to receive, along with any restrictions or guidelines.
4. Medical Benefits: Negotiate for comprehensive medical benefits, such as medical aid and life insurance.
5. Performance Review Process: Clarify the performance review process, including the frequency and how your performance will be measured.
6. Training and Development Opportunities: Request opportunities for professional growth and development, such as training sessions, workshops, or conferences.
7. Employee Referral Bonus: If your employer offers an employee referral program, make sure to discuss the specifics of the bonus, including the amount and conditions.
8. Remote Work Options: If you would like the option to work from home, negotiate for flexible remote work arrangements.
9. Relocation Expenses: If you need to move for the job, negotiate for reimbursement of relocation expenses, such as travel and moving costs.
10. Pension Contributions: Discuss the employer’s contributions to a pension fund or retirement savings plan.
11. Notice Period: Clarify the notice period required if you leave the company or if the company terminates your employment.
12. Severance Package: Discuss the terms of a severance package in the event of termination.
13. Intellectual Property Rights: Negotiate for the ownership and use of any intellectual property created during your employment.
14. Non-Compete Clause: Be aware of any non-compete clause, which may restrict you from working for a competitor after leaving the company.
15. Confidentiality Clause: Clarify the terms of a confidentiality clause, which may prohibit you from disclosing confidential information to third parties.
16. Long-Term Incentives: Negotiate for long-term incentives, such as stock options or profit-sharing arrangements.
17. Flexible Benefit Options: Negotiate for flexible benefit options, such as the option to purchase additional leave or insurance.
18. Travel Reimbursement: If you are required to travel for work, negotiate for reimbursement of travel expenses.
19. Employee Assistance Programs: Discuss any employee assistance programs, such as counseling or financial advice.
20. Job Security: Clarify the terms of your employment, including the duration of your contract and conditions for renewing or extending it.

When negotiating your employment contract, it’s important to consider your priorities and what you want to achieve in your career. For example, if you value professional development, you may want to negotiate opportunities for training and professional growth. On the other hand, if you have a family and prioritise work-life balance, you may want to negotiate flexible work hours or generous vacation time.

Remember, your employment contract is a legally binding agreement, so it’s important to read it carefully and understand all the terms and conditions before you sign. If you’re unsure about a clause or need clarification, don’t hesitate to consult with a lawyer or HR professional.

At Gosoft, we’re committed to helping job seekers find the right job and negotiate the best terms. Our platform empowers employees to refer their friends and colleagues for job openings, incentivising them with bonuses and rewards. Whether you’re looking for your next career move or just want to improve your current employment contract, we’re here to help.