Negotiating Salary & Benefits
Negotiating is a very important part of the job search process. It can set the tone for your work life and experience with the employer. These are some suggestions to consider when you receive a job offer.
Arriving at an acceptable package of salary and benefits is a two-way street. Both you and your new employer need to come away from any negotiation feeling that you're getting good value and that you've been treated fairly. Try to arrive at an agreement you both feel good about.
Know What You Need Ahead of Time
Before you begin haggling over the details, you need to know clearly the salary you can reasonably accept. You may not be able to afford to accept a salary below a certain base level -- or you may not be able to accept a job that does not include health insurance coverage, for instance.
It's also important that you clearly understand the kind of salary and benefits you can expect based on the market demand for the type of position you seek . Your experience, education and the industry wage standards will all factor into the salary.
If possible, try to find out the salary range for the position before the interview. Contacting the interviewer's secretary, the personnel office or a networking contact that works in the company may be helpful.
It isn't usually recommended to accept an offer on the spot. Express your appreciation and strong interest in the job. Request at least 24 hours to consider it, even when saying "Yes." Ask any questions you need clarified.
Assess the job offer in terms of your needs, benefits and long-term career and life goals. Talk it over with someone you respect. Make a list of the pros and cons of the job offer.
Consider if the job description is clear. Note your reporting relationships, authority and advancement potential. Keep asking questions until you clearly understand. Careful thought and consideration will only gain you respect.
If you want the job, make it clear this is the job you want. If you're uncertain, state there are some items you'd like to discuss before you can accept the job. Suggest meeting further to talk about the offer.
The Negotiation Begins
Begin the negotiation with reasonable requests. Those requests could include more money, benefits, tuition, training, more vacation time, a flexible schedule, stock options, a company car, on-site day care, parking privileges, etc.
Negotiations should never become emotional or hostile. Use your value, skills, experience and education to negotiate. Don't use your need for the job to negotiate.
Listen carefully. If the offer is less than you expected, let them know that, but state you're still interested in the position if they want to reconsider their offer. Don't assume the first offer is fixed. Even if the interviewer tells you it is-- it rarely is.
If the same figure is offered a couple days later, it probably is the last offer. In that case, you can ask for a salary review in six months to evaluate your performance and value, or you can turn the job down, asking that they keep you in mind for future openings paying more money.
Even when saying "no," leave the door open to negotiation. (Don't use this to negotiate a higher wage. When you say "no," you must be ready to lose the job.)
Finally, when you reach an agreement, request the agreement in writing. That's best for both you and your new employer.