Preparing for the Job Offer

As soon as you are offered a job, you'll have to begin negotiations for your salary. Negotiating is something that you'll need to do throughout your career. Hiring managers are usually more proficient in negotiating but if you follow the tips below, you will be able to negotiate a great salary!

Tips for Negotiating:

1. Never discuss salary until a firm job offer has been made.
2. Research what the salary levels are for the position. Know what the fair market value is for the position in your area and look at similar positions at other companies. Also, take into account your geographical area since salary ranges can vary greatly between different regions of the U.S.
3. Make a list of what you have to offer. Know your skills, abilities and talents and what you'll be able to provide to the company.
4. Determine how badly the job position needs to be filled. If it needs to be filled quickly, this will give you more power for negotiating.
5. Wait for an offer. Do not discuss salary until you have been offered the position.
6. Have a list of your salary options. Come up with three salary figures - the lowest, medium and highest salary you think you'll be offered. Aim for a salary between your middle and high figure. (Managers have budgets and it is normal for a hiring manager to try to hire you at the lowest possible cost for the company. Most managers will want to pay what the position is worth but will not offer you the highest salary initially.)
7. Know what the minimum salary is you will accept.
8. Do not bring up the question of salary first. If the hiring manager asks you what your requirements are, the best response is something like I'm more interested in the position and am sure that whatever you offer me will be fair or I would consider any reasonable offer.
9. When a salary offer is made, show excitement for the job. Let them know you really want the job and are only hesitant because of salary.
10. Once the offer has been made, remain calm. If the offer seems too low, repeat the amount and remain quiet as though you were considering the offer. Indicate what you would like for your salary to be and let the manager know that you have done research on the salary ranges. Also, point out how you believe you will contribute to the position and the company and ask if there are any other doubts over your suitability for the position that is influencing the salary.
11. If the hiring manager cannot offer a higher salary, try negotiating for other items listed below.
12. Make the salary discussion a positive experience. Be friendly and focus on a win-win solution.
13. Be prepared to walk away if necessary if you cannot receive an offer in your minimum range.
14. If you accept the salary offer, be sure to get it in writing (as well as any other things you negotiate.)