Congratulations! You got through the application process and the interview stage, and now Company X wants to hire you. The only problem is that you’re not thrilled with their salary offer. So can you negotiate the financials without aggravating your new boss? Sure. Here’s how:
Do your research
If you come in demanding an outrageous figure, you’ll probably raise a red flag in your boss’s mind. But if it’s clear that you’ve taken some time to figure out what the industry average is when it comes to salary, you may get him to budge on the figure without thinking less of you. Get some solid facts before you throw out a number. You need to know what other people are making in your industry, as well as in your city. You’ll impress your boss with your diligence, and be able to offer solid proof about why the figure you want is reasonable.
Don’t sell yourself short
When you fill out an “expected salary” box on a job application, you’re pigeon holing yourself. If you ask for $60,000 and they were expecting to shell out $80,000, you may find that you’re not getting the money that you might have had you left it blank. On the other hand, if you put down a figure that seems high, you run the risk of having your application passed over simply because the number was too steep. Instead, leave it blank and negotiate when you get an offer.
Know what you’re worth
Many people just assume they have to accept the first offer that’s given to them, regardless of whether they think the amount is fair or not. In reality, most professionals have more leverage than they think. If you’re in high demand, don’t just accept the first offer that’s thrown your way. Don’t brag about how three other companies have contacted you, but be confident in your abilities. It’s okay to mention that you’ve interviewed at other places, so as long you don’t try to force your potential new employer’s hand.
Don’t be the one to start the negotiations
If you head into a meeting and immediately start trying to negotiate your salary, you may throw the employer off. Instead, make it known that you’re excited about the opportunity and are positive that you can work on a compensation package that works for both of you. If they bring it up first you can begin to negotiate, but don’t come in swinging right away. When it comes time to discuss the issue of salary, say your piece and then sit back and listen.
Have you negotiated a salary after a job offer? How did you approach the process? Let us know in the comments!
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