There is a lot of advice for job seekers regarding resumes and interviews but what happens when the interview is over and you’ve received a job offer? Salary negotiations may be the most important conversation you have with your new employer so it is essential that you are prepared. Here are some tips to successfully prepare for a salary negotiation along with both how and why you should be flexible.
- Do your homework. If you are unprepared for a negotiation you may end up in a position that makes you supremely unhappy. Start by researching rates in your area on Salary.com. Use this information, your salary history, and your expenses to create a “Walk-Away” number. This is the number just below the very lowest that you are willing to accept. If a potential employer is unwilling to go above this number, it is time to walk away.
- Be flexible. Sometimes employers can’t offer much more money due to a number of reasons so it is up to you to decide what is most important to you. They could make up for it in additional benefits such as a flexible schedule or performance bonuses. You can stand firm on your Walk-Away number, but be open to more creative solutions to the problem.
- Point out your value. There is no sense in being stubborn for the sake of it. Instead, when discussing the salary, be sure to point out the value you bring to the table. Let them know that you’ve done your research and that you believe that what you’re asking for is worth their investment. However, be sure to only include information that is important to the company in this conversation. Leave out personal information such as your student loans or mortgage.
Are you ready to start your salary negotiations for your perfect job? CornerStone Staffing, hiring for jobs in Arlington TX, can help today!
