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The Atlanta BeltLine’s opened its Westside Trail on Monday, June 23, 2025, marking the expansion with a ribbon-cutting by city officials.
The gathering heralded the unveiling of the longest continuous trail segment to date.
Atlanta Beltine’s Westside Trail Opens
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, BeltLine Inc. President and CEO Clyde Higgs, city officials, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the launch. Read: Where to eat on the Beltline.
Westside Trail – Segment 4, a 1.3-mile addition, completes the 6.8-mile pathway along historic Washington Park, a century-old Black suburb and cultural hub.
How Far Does the Beltline’s Westside Trail Go?
The Westside Trail stretches 6.7 miles from Pittsburgh Yards in southwest Atlanta to Huff Road in Blandtown, now the longest uninterrupted segment of the BeltLine. Additionally, users can travel 7.2 miles from the Westside BeltLine Connector’s end to Pittsburgh Yards.
“This milestone goes beyond infrastructure—it’s about uniting communities and preserving Atlanta’s rich history,” said Higgs. “The 6.7-mile trail winds through neighborhoods shaped by resilience, built by Black architects and builders, and enriched by generations of pride. This extension honors that legacy as we work toward a complete 22-mile loop by 2030.”
The trail runs from Lena Street North to Law Street, passing streets named for civil rights icons like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Joseph E. Boone, and Joseph Lowery.
Christi Jackson, Board President of Washington Park Conservancy, noted, “The Westside Trail reflects the community’s past and its commitment to growth. Segment 4 celebrates the city’s inclusive vision and the BeltLine’s dedication to engagement, linking diverse areas for outdoor activities, arts, and discovery.”
At the ribbon-cutting, Mayor Dickens said, “In 2014, when I joined the board, west and southside residents, including myself, doubted this would reach us. Now, it’s a reality, mirroring the eastside’s transformation.”
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Daytime temperatures in Atlanta have been averaging about 90 degrees of late, triggering a heat advisory from city and state officials. Now, more than ever, it’s important that you stay inside to keep yourself cool.
If you’re wondering how to do that, this article will show you how.
How Can I Overcome The Heat This Summer?
If you have elderly neighbors or loved ones, check on them frequently to make sure they are staying out of the heat. Now let’s get started.
1. Stay Hydrated
Jopwell / Pexels
Make sure you drink plenty of water. When you’re outside in the heat, your body will sweat. This fluid needs to be replenished by taking in water. Humid conditions will make you perspire even more. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a water bottle or jug with you at all times.
How Much Water Should You Drink In Summer?
Regardless of the season, a person should drink about eight 8oz glasses of water a day on average. This will also keep you hydrated when it’s hot and humid.
One way you can always stay hydrated is to keep a water bottle on you.
Pictured: 1-Gallon Aquafit Water Bottle
Here are some excellent water bottles you can use to stay hydrated:
2. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Another way you can stay cool in the hot weather is by wearing clothing that doesn’t stick to your arms, legs and torso. The body’s temperature has a tendency to increase when clothing is form-fitting.Opt for loose clothing in the warmer months like halter tops and cotton garments.Casual Halter Tank Top Sleeveless ShirtPleated And Sleeveless Tank Top Halter TopBuy Now3. Stay In Well-Ventilated Areas
Don’t go to places that have bad ventilation. Not only is this not wise in the era of COVID-19, but you’ll likely burn up.If you can, try to stay under the fan. You’ll be surprised by how much of a breeze can be generated between a doorway or a ceiling fan or one in the window.4. Take A Lukewarm Shower
Photo by Caique Silva: Pexels Nothing cools the body like lukewarm water. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to bathe or shower in cold water to reduce your body temperature. Lukewarm water will not only do the trick just fine, but it will be more pleasant for you.Another benefit to using lukewarm water? It can help relieve such stiffness in your muscles.If you can’t take a shower in the middle of the day (kind of hard to do that at work) you can sponge your head, neck and limbs for a similar soothing effect.Here are some showerheads that can give you different stream options for maximum relaxation:Pictured: High-Pressure Luxury ShowerheadThere are also handheld options and those with adjustable streams.
5. Keep Heat Out Of Your Home
Photo credit: Rowan Heuvel via Unsplash If you enjoy letting the sunlight penetrate your home’s interior, the heat will follow. To mitigate overheating your home, make sure you:- Close the blinds
- Shut the shades
- Close all windows and curtains
You can also opt for lighter-colored curtains, which will reflect heat rather than absorb it.Last Word
If you’re preparing to go outside in the summer heat, you should have a plan to stay cool. Heat stroke is a major threat to people right now, regardless of their age. To help you beat the heat, this article will show you how to keep cool amid Atlanta’s hot temperatures.
Beating the heat is a priority in the summer. Thankfully, there are some ways you can manage it without risking your safety.For a bonus tip, you can open the windows during a time when the bugs aren’t out. Not only will this keep your home cool, but your energy bill will go down as well.Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
Multiple reputable survey websites allow you to earn money online, with earnings varying based on the platform, the number of surveys completed, and the time invested.
These websites pay you real money (and in some cases, points that you can redeem into gift cards) to do surveys.
In this article, we’ll discuss several of the top survey sites that allow you to earn cash.
Are Survey Sites Legit Places To Make Money?
The survey sites that we will consider all are great resources to build extra income. You won’t get rich by any stretch of the imagination, but what you earn will supplement your income.
Many survey sites conduct market research for diverse clients across several different major industries. They use the information you input to make their products and services better.
- Swagbucks
- Google Opinion Rewards
- Toluna Influencers
- Inbox Dollars
- MyPoints.com
Swagbucks
If you want to do more than just answer surveys for money, Swagbucks is the ideal website for you. At Swagbucks.com, you can earn cash by watching short videos, search the web and more.
You can also earn gifts cards from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target and more from using the site.
Is Swagbucks Legit And Safe?
Swagbucks is a rewards program that allows yo to earn points and get cash back by doing different tasks online. instead of being a scam, Swagbucks is a great way to earn extra cash by doing things online.
Google Opinion Rewards
Google Opinion Rewards is an app that pays you to help improve Google’s many products and services. Once you download it, you can see how to fill out surveys about different products.
The way the site works is that you earn credits from filling out surveys related to Google services. You can then convert the credits into cash.
Is Google Opinion Rewards Legit
Google Opinion Rewards is a Google product itself, so it’s as legit as they come.
Like most survey sites, Google Opinion Rewards won’t pay you much. Users can earn roughly between $0.10 and $1.00 per survey completed. The more questions you answer, the more you can earn.
Toluna Influencers
When it comes to surveys, Toluna Influencers is one of the best sites to try out. The surveys on the site will generally take between 15-20 minutes.
The Toluna surveys begin with introductory questions to gauge whether you are the correct demographic. Depending on how you answer will determine if your answers will be counted in the survey.
Is Toluna Influencers Legit?
You may be wondering if Toluna Influencers is a legitimate website and not a scam. Once you sign up for the site, you will see that it is for real.
Inbox Dollars
Inbox Dollars is on online rewards club that pays you via PayPal for completing various tasks on their website.
If you choose to try InboxDollars.com, you’ll find that it is a viable resource for generating income. It will take some time before you actually make a buck, but when you do, the money is 100% real.
Is Inbox Dollars Legit And Safe?
InboxDollars.com is a safe-to-use website that pays users for their time and effort. They even are offering a $5 just to sign up.
My Points
MyPoints.com is a website that allows you to earn points for shopping and buying the things you need and want.
The website is currently offering $10 Amazon and Visa reward cards for those who sign up.
MyPoints.com features several types of surveys on topics like automobiles, fashion, travel, to home and garden.
Is MyPoints.com Legit?
If you’re worrying about whether My Points is a legitimate site, you should know that it very much it. As far as pay, how much you earn depends on how many paid surveys you attempt and complete.
Each online survey has a different payout, with some offering as much as $50. Most will pay less, but also take less time.
Conclusion
If you want to make money online, it’s easier than ever right about now. Thankfully, we’re living in a time when you can actually generate income from the comfort of your home.
Filling out surveys online can earn you a small fortune if you keep at it consistently.
To start making money, all you have to do is register with an email address, create a password and an account on the respective website of your choice.
You can generate cash from your home, work or even in between destinations from your phone, laptop or tablet. What’s not to like?
Of course, there are other ways to earn extra income. You can do it pretty fast or take your time and gradually earn income.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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Along with the best Atlanta weekend events, one thing — or should we say several things — you do not want to miss are Atlanta’s summer festivals.
This summer, there are going to be some awesome events that you don’t want to miss, especially outdoors.
We’re going to show you some of the best summer festivals the city has to offer. You don’t want to miss any of these!
Here Are The Best Atlanta Summer Festivals To Attend
From Comic Con to Music Midtown and more, some great summer festivals in Atlanta that are coming up.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the best summer festivals in Atlanta for you to attend in 2025. Some of these events may stretch into the fall, but you’ll enjoy them all the same!
R&B Seafood Festival
The R&B Seafood Festival celebrates the very best of America’s coastal cuisine. The date is Sunday, May 25 · 12 – 4pm EDT. It’s happening at Underground Atlanta 50 Upper Alabama St, Atlanta, GA.
Atlanta Jazz Festival
The Atlanta Jazz Festival is Memorial Day weekend in Midtown’s Piedmont Park. The Memorial Day weekend event, slated for May 24-26, once again looks to bring the city together to enjoy the sweet sounds of music.
Atlanta R&B Wine, Food and Music Festival
Who doesn’t like to enjoy a good meal while they listen to live music outdoors? The Atlanta R&B Wine Food & Music Festival is happening on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, at Atlantic Station.
Atlanta Caribbean Carnival
Atlanta’s largest carnival celebration kicks off May 23, 2 PM – Monday, May 27, in downtown Atlanta and various locations. Learn more.
Virginia-Highland Summerfest
The Virginia-Highland Summerfest is happening on the following days in Atlanta:
- June 6, Friday Night Kick-off: 6pm – 9 pm
- June 7: Saturday Festival: 10am – 10pm
- June 8: Sunday Festival: 11am-5pm
The festival and feature fine artists, live music, a KidsFest, and more.
Atlanta Summer Wine Fest
The Atlanta Summer Wine Fest is set for August 11, 2025 from 12 noon to 10 p.m. The event is taking place at City Winery in Midtown Atlanta.
BronzeLens Film Festival
The BronzeLens Festival will take place in Atlanta, Georgia from Aug 20-24. Here are some of the top events you can expect to experience:
- Film Selections
- Movie Screenings
- Workshops
- Networking Opportunities
Piedmont Park Summer Arts Festival
The Piedmont Park Summer Arts Festival will be held on August 16-17, 2025, is a two-day outdoor family-oriented event that will have something for all ages.
A boon for the city’s thriving arts community, the event is one of the Sou
Atlanta Ice Cream Festival
The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival returns to the city on Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 11 AM – 6 PM. This year’s Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is once again slated to take place at Piedmont Park in Midtown. We’ll update you with the latest details as they come in. See more details.
Final Word
If you want to really have a good time outside in Atlanta, Georgia, going to a festival is a must.
Atlanta in the summertime is one of the most fun places you could ever be: hot weather, live music and cold beer can be had in abundance. All you have to do is attend one of the many summer festivals. But which ones are the best?
Whether you enjoy food-focused festivals, or some downhome blues under the sunset. We’re going to cover them all.
Georgia’s largest city has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.
Atlanta has it’s share of cool spots, diverse neighborhoods and a solid job market, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding employment, but more on that later.
Just about equally important (not really) is that you’re going to have to support one of Georgia’s many professional sports teams. That means you’ll be expected to purchase gear from the Braves, Falcons or Hawks.
The first thing you need to do is:
- Transfer your driver’s license
- Transfer your vehicle registration
- Register to vote
Where To Live In Georgia
If you prefer a rural environment, South Georgia is a short distance from the coast and Florida beaches. But the economy is not as diverse, as you might imagine.
You could also opt to live in North Georgia, where the mountains dominate the landscape. It’s very beautiful up there and sprawl is starting to lure young families to the area in droves.
North Georgia also has its share of lakes and other beautiful natural areas that will put you in constant vacation mode.
Here are the best places to live in Georgia.
Where To Live In Atlanta
If you plan on moving to Atlanta, what you need to know is… We Full.
No, seriously, metro Atlanta has plenty of houses for sale or rent, but the traffic is pretty crazy. If you choose to rent a home or apartment, it’s a good idea to get renter’s insurance.
One of the infrastructure wonders that you’ll appreciate (or dread) is Interstate 285, which is a loop around the city.
I-285 is 66 miles around, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation.
While the freeway touches Atlanta and DeKalb counties, it technically does not enter Cobb or Gwinnett counties, the two other major metro Atlanta jurisdictions.
Here are the best places to live in metro Atlanta.
How To Survive Atlanta Traffic
Atlanta traffic will take some getting used to. The traffic perennially ranks as one of the worst in the nation and there are a few reasons for that:
- The drivers are from all across the country
- Atlanta’s highways are built like race tracks
- Nobody really knows where they’re going
READ: How To Survive Atlanta Traffic (Safely)
Once you begin driving around the city and learning some landmarks, you’re going to want to know where to eat.
Atlanta has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Here are some options:
- Where to eat in Atlanta
- The best Cajun-style restaurants in Atlanta
- Best date night restaurants you have to try
You’re also going to need an apartment for starters. Most people who relocate to the area rent an apartment before a home.
How To Move Into An Apartment In Georgia
Here are some steps you need to be successful getting an apartment in Georgia and the Atlanta area.
The first thing you need to do is look for apartments that don’t do credit checks on potential tenants. That way, it’s easier to find a place.
You’re also going to want to entice the landlord by offering to pay more upfront or even every month.
After you’ve gotten a place to live, you’ll want to get a job (if you don’t already have one). With most people, they have a job, but want a better one.
How to rent an affordable apartment in Atlanta.
Where To Find A Job In Georgia
Although Georgia is full of good jobs, it may be hard to find one. That’s especially the case if you don’t have any networking groups or friends and family to support you.
What you need to do is make a list of jobs that you want and employers you want to work for.
If you have your resume together, it’s time to apply for jobs.
Final Thought
We’ve gone over a lot of stuff, but moving to Georgia shouldn’t intimidate you. It’s actually one of the best places to live in America.
The population of metro Atlanta continues to grow year by year. If you’re thinking of moving to the Georgia’s biggest city, you should do your homework.
If you enjoy beautiful weather that never gets too cold, hills, mountains and Southern hospitality, Georgia is the place to be.
Up Next: Things To Do In Atlanta Outside
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Atlanta is scorching right now, which why public pools are a necessity for kids and adults alike. The city has four of them located in convenient areas.
The city’s Department of Parks & Recreation has opened the pools for the summer season across Atlanta.
What Are Atlanta’s Free Pools?
Here are Atlanta free pools and their locations.
Grant Park Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 8 p.m., Daily
Adams Park Swimming Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Monday to Saturday
John A. White Outdoor Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 8 p.m. daily
Anderson Park Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Monday to Saturday
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday
Pittman Park Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Daily
Candler Park Pool
- Cost: free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Daily
James Orange Swimming Pool
- Cost: free
- Hours: 12:30 to 8 p.m., Daily
Maddox Pool
- Cost: free
- Hours: 12:30 to 8 p.m., Daily
Mozley Park Swimming Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday
Thomasville Pool
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 12:30 to 7 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday
Final Word
Are you trying to beat the heat this summer? There are few things as refreshing as a nice swim in the pool. The good news is that Atlanta’s public pools are open for business!
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Have you ever felt like Atlanta needed a beach?Well, the nearest beach to Atlanta, Georgia, may be closer to you than you think.
Yes, the city is landlocked, but if you get in your vehicle and can endure a 25-50 minute ride, you can enjoy some great Georgia beaches near Atlanta.
Here Are The Best Beaches In Georgia
In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about Georgia’s beaches.
Quick Links:
- Where Are The Best Beaches In Georgia?
- What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?
- What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?
- Interactive Map: Beaches Near Atlanta
The closest legitimate beaches may not be within eyesight of the concrete jungle that is Atlanta, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take a road trip to enjoy a quick getaway — and we’ve got a winner on our shores.
With traveling in mind, here are some great Georgia islands to check out:
Tybee Island
Tybee Island aka Savannah Beach, is a rustic getaway spot 18 miles away from Savannah. The beach’s famously preserved history has made it a tourist destination in recent years.
Visitors love to walk the three miles of uninterrupted sand, featuring salt marshes with birds and wildlife unique to the Georgia coast.
Jekyll Island
If you’re enchanted with the natural beauty of undeveloped beachfront, Jekyll Island, the smallest of barrier islands in the state, is a paradise. Visitors can enjoy a host of wildlife-center activities, such as horseback riding and turtle habitat tours. As a bonus, you can visit the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel, a 19th-century winter retreat for the rich.
St. Simon Island
Fans of historic structures have been flocking her for years because of St. Simon’s historic lighthouse, which began operating six years after the Civil War ended. Other preserved structures include Bloody Marsh and several antebellum buildings.
St. Simons has also become a shopping and dining mecca as new eateries have moved in.
Cumberland National Seashore
Georgia’s largest barrier island features huge swaths of marchland and pristine maritime forests across its nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness.
Visitors can tour the very spots where wealthy industrialists vacationed. Cumberland Island is also home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness.
Little St. Simon Island
This little 10,000-acre island features seven miles of beach and 20 miles of wilderness trails for the explorer types.
If exclusive lodgings are your fancy, check out the the Lodge at Little St. Simon’s Island, a 30-guest gem accessible strictly by 10-minute boat ride from the mainland.
Lake Lanier
Lake Lanier does indeed have a beach. Many people from metro Atlanta like to rent boats and tour Lake Lanier, but people can enjoy a refreshing swim there as well.
Read about the surreal history of Lake Lanier.
Lake Lanier is basically built around parks, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, themed restaurants and designated swimming areas.
Lake Allatoona
Lake Allatoona is a popular tourist spot located in Acworth near Proctor Landing Park.
There’s a swimming beach on site, where people can also park and reserve picnic pavilions. The park is located at 5120 Allatoona Drive, Acworth.
Lake Oconee
Lake Oconee is a relatively new lake in central Georgia. The lake was built in 1979 as a reservoir stemming from the Wallace Dam holding the Oconee River.
Lake Oconee has a small beach area frequented by people from the nearby cities of Eatonton and Greensboro.
What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?
Here are the cities in Georgia with beaches. For the beaches in Glynn County, New Brunswick, Georgia is the closest city:
- Cumberland Island — Cambden County, Georgia
- East Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
- Glory Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
- Sapelo Island — McIntosh County, Georgia
- Jekyll Island — Glynn County, Georgia
- St. Simons Island — Glynn County, Georgia
What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?
The closest beach to Atlanta is Tybee Island. It is 267 miles away. If you’re interested in driving there, here are the driving directions:
- Get on I-75/I-85 South
- Follow I-75 South to I-16 East to Montgomery St. in Savannah
- Use any lane to take exit 167B for Montgomery Street toward Savannah/Civic Center/Downtown
- Follow E President St, Islands Expy and US-80 E to 10th Terrace in Tybee Island
Interactive Map: Beaches Closest To Atlanta
Final Word
The temperature outside is perfect for a little fun in the Georgia sun, and what better place to have that than at the beach.
The best beaches in Georgia are close to metro Atlanta. And these spots will be packed come Memorial Day, summertime and other holiday periods.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
Atlanta has some of its best festivals during this time of year.
This weekend, the Bourbon & Brisket Festival returns to The Battery Atlanta on Saturday, June 21st, from 12 PM – 8 PM!
The Bourbon & Brisket Festival: What To Know
The Bourbon & Brisket Festival is FREE for the whole family! Enjoy an incredible day of BBQ, bourbon, live music, and fun—all for a great cause!
What to Expect:
- Delicious Brisket & BBQ from top local vendors
- Bourbon Tastings & More
- Live Music Performances (see schedule below)
- Splash Pad & Family-Friendly Activities
- Retail Vendors & Local Restaurants
Who’s Performing at the Bourbon & Brisket Festival?
- Georgia Satellites
- Bad Medicine: Bon Jovi Experience
- The Band Waleska
- Hello My Name Is
- School of Rock
The Battery Atlanta | June 21st | 12 PM – 8 PM
Rain or Shine | Open to the Public | All Ages Welcome!
Where Is the Bourbon & Brisket Festival Being Held?
The festival is being held at The Battery Atlanta at 800 Battery Avenue NE Atlanta, Ga., 30339. Here’s a map to help you find it.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/800+Battery+Ave+SE,+Atlanta,+GA+30339/@33.890574,-84.4696919,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88f5104df8b8f755:0x7db662557da06128!8m2!3d33.890574!4d-84.4696919!16s%2Fg%2F11l2w94rtg?utm_campaign=ml-sul&g_ep=Eg1tbF8yMDI1MDYxNl8wIOC7DCoASAJQAg%3D%3DFinal Word
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September 27, 2025 is National Fishing and Hunting Day. In Georgia, that on that day you can fish for free!
As you know, it’s against the law to fish without a license in most states. The reason is because fishing is a regulated activity due to species endangerment as well as lake supplies.
For a limited time though, you can fish without a license on select days in Georgia.
When Are Georgia’s Free Fishing Days?
This year, Georgia’s free fishing days are on the following dates:
- may 31, 2025
- June 7, 2025
- September 27, 2025
Those three days are when you can bring the kids, buddies or family out on the water and catch all the fish your heart desires!
What Are Some Great Places To Go Fishing in Georgia?
The Peach State has many famous fishing holes that people have caught nice catches at. Here are a few of our favorites.
- Lake Oconee
- Lake Lanier
- Lake Allatoona
- Lake Seminole
- Golden Isles.
- Lake Hartwell
- Clarks Hill Lake
- Chattahoochee River
- Flint River
Check out more places to go fishing in Georgia.
If you love being outside, there are many outdoors activities you can enjoy in our great state. Here are some of the best things to do in and around North Georgia. And here’s where to go fishing around Atlanta. More From AtlantaFi.com:
- How To Get A Georgia Hunting License
- 10 Adventurous Things To Do Around Atlanta
- 10 Places To Take Great Instagram Photos
So you’ve landed a pretty good job, but for you to stay, you need to make more money. It’s time to have that talk with your boss.
In this article, we’ll discuss some tailored salary negotiation tips to help you approach your boss to ask for a raise.
These tips are informed by my experience as a supervisor for a major media company and my up-to-date understanding of negotiation practices:
Salary Negotiation Tips
Research Market Rates Thoroughly
Why it matters: In big cities like Atlanta, salaries can range from $22.97/hour to $163,000/year, but these are starting points.
Knowing the market rate for your role and location ensures you don’t undervalue yourself. For example, Glassdoor reports a median Customer Success Manager salary of $84,506/year, with a total pay range of $105K-$187K, depending on experience and company.
How to do it: Use sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, or LinkedIn Salary to benchmark roles. Check the web results—e.g., companies like Buffer or GitLab publish transparent remote salary guides. If it’s a remote job, consider the employer’s headquarters location or employee distribution if available, as this can influence pay scales.
Tip: Cross-reference with the job titles and ranges for a particular job you’re interested in (e.g., Operations Coordinator: $54,500-$95,700) to set a realistic target.
Establish Your Value Before Negotiating
Why it matters: Employers pay for what you bring to the table. Doing what you can to prove your value can justify a higher offer—e.g., for a Customer Success Manager role ($109K-$163K), highlight past success in driving customer retention or revenue.
How to do it: Prepare specific examples of achievements (e.g., “Increased customer satisfaction by 20% in my last role”). Tailor this to your job description or the one you’re applying for.
Tip: Avoid mentioning personal financial needs (e.g., mortgage, debt) as negotiation leverage, as these typically come off as unconvincing to recruiters.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
Why it matters: 54% of candidates don’t negotiate, potentially leaving money on the table. For instance, a $70K-$75K Technical Operations Associate offer could be nudged higher with the right approach.
How to do it: Express gratitude, then counter with a range based on your research (e.g., “I’m excited about the role. Based on my experience and market data, I was hoping for a range of $75K-$80K. Could we explore that?”). The key is to avoid early internal concessions.
Tip: If the salary is fixed, negotiate for other benefits (e.g., remote work flexibility, bonuses).
Use the Salary Range as a Starting Point
Why it matters: Many job postings, for instance, a 100K-$120K Support Experience Coordinator role, provide ranges. Targeting the higher end of a band is appropriate as you can grow into the role within a year.
How to do it: Aim for the upper half of the range if you exceed the job’s requirements. If the lower end is offered, ask what it would take to reach the higher end (e.g., performance metrics).
Tip: If no range is given (e.g., Remote Medical Scheduling Specialist), propose one based on similar roles.
Leverage the Full Compensation Package
Why it matters: If salary negotiations stall, other perks can offset the offer. The LinkedIn article suggests considering benefits like health insurance, stock options, or extra vacation days.
How to do it: Ask about the total compensation package early. For example, if the job is for a Care Coordinator Associate ($22.97-$33.05/hour) offer is low, inquire about signing bonuses or remote work stipends.
Tip: Be prepared to compromise—e.g., accept a slightly lower salary for a robust benefits package.
Practice Your Pitch
Why it matters: Confidence comes with preparation. It’s a known fact that practicing reduces anxiety during real negotiations.
How to do it: Role-play with a friend or record yourself. Focus on articulating your value and handling pushback (e.g., “We can’t go higher than $75K”).
Tip: Time your negotiation after receiving the offer but before accepting, as recommended by LinkedIn.
Be Ready to Walk Away
Why it matters: If the offer doesn’t meet your minimum (e.g., below $54,500 for a job like Operations Coordinator), it’s better to decline than settle. The Harvard PON article warns against self-sabotage in negotiations.
How to do it: Set a personal minimum based on your research and life goals. Politely decline if unmet: “I appreciate the offer, but I’ll need to pass as it doesn’t align with my current expectations.”
Tip: Leave the door open for future opportunities by staying professional.
Final Word
Demand for remote roles remains high thisyear, potentially giving you leverage. However, companies may adjust salaries based on cost-of-living differences across remote worker locations.
As always, inflation and labor market conditions could influence salary offers. Stay updated about the job market and adjust your expectations.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia