8 Salary Negotiation Tips
Use these salary negotiation tips to improve your skill and confidence with job interview salary negotiations and boost your income.
Negotiations don't have to be daunting if you've prepared yourself well with a few facts.
1. Avoid initiating salary negotiations during the interview process.
You'll have more power to negotiate later in the hiring process, so even if the employer mentions a salary range that is below your expectations, do not enter into salary negotiations at this stage. Move on with the interview, and don't give up on the job at this stage either, you might be able to negotiate a fair arrangement later in the hiring process.
2. Avoid being the first to bring up questions about compensation.
It might not be possible in every situation, but do try to let the employer be the first to mention a salary range.
3. If the employer does insist on hearing your salary expectations in the first interview, provide a range that is within your industry standards for someone with your skills and experience.
Be sure to research salaries first. Never go into an interview without a solid understanding of reasonable salary expectations for the job you are seeking.
4. Even if the employer has not discussed compensation during your initial interview, avoid asking about salary in the first interview if it wasn't mentioned by the employer.
Particularly, do not make it your first question when the employer asks if you have any questions.
I know you need to know this information, and you will get it before you accept the job, but with most employers, unless they initiate a discussion about compensation, waiting is better.
5. The time when you have the most power to negotiate compensation occurs at the point when you've been offered the job but before you've accepted the job.
At this point the employer has decided you are the best person for the job, and they'll be disappointed if you don't accept it. This is the point when you are in the best position to tactfully negotiate compensation.
6. When you've been offered the job, but before you accept the job, find out everything you need to know about your salary and benefits.
Never ever accept a job without first getting all of the information you need about compensation or you may be sorely disappointed when you receive your first pay check.
7. If the salary is below your expectations and the employer can't or won't budge on salary, perhaps you can negotiate additional vacation time or a training allowance if you value those benefits.
8. Ask the employer to provide the details of the offer in writing. While it is true that some employers may be hesitant to do so; be wary of companies that will not put your offer in writing.
Job interview salary negotiations can have a big impact on your long term earning potential at your next job. Use these salary negotiation tips to ensure you're prepared to negotiate confidently and effectively.
