There is so much to worry about when it comes to making the right first impression in an interview. Sometimes the biggest mistake job seekers make is bringing up money too soon in the process. Salary is always a touchy subject so when do you know the best time to bring it up? Let’s take a look at some professional advice for discussing salary during your job search process.
Deflect in the first interview.
The worst time to have a conversation about money is in the first interview. That interview is really the time to showcase your skills and accomplishments and make the interviewer interested in inviting you for a second conversation. Don’t bring it up in this meeting. If the company brings it up, politely deflect the questions. Suggest that you aren’t prepared to talk about money now but would like to review the company information and check into averages for the area before considering an offer.
Never give a definitive answer without research.
You never have to discuss what you’ve made in past jobs with a potential employer, nor do you need to share your W2 information with them. While some negotiation techniques would involve sharing this information, if it is not relevant to the job you’re interviewing for then it shouldn’t be discussed. If you are asked what you want to make for the job, never offer a number before you research the averages and median incomes for the role in your city.
Present your case at the second interview.
When you do make it to the second interview, now is the time to use the research you’ve done to present your case. Utilize a website such as Salary.com or the Bureau of Labor Statistics to determine what the average salary is for this type of position in the area. Consider what you’ve made in the past and determine the lowest dollar amount you would accept for the job. However, never reveal this number in the conversation. Suggest the best possible amount to kick off the negotiations.
Know your walk-away number.
Once you’ve determined the lowest dollar amount that you would accept keep this in your mind as your “walk-away” number. If the company offers you less than this amount, politely refuse the job offer and take yourself out of consideration. Sometimes the company will come back with a better offer, but if not it is time to continue the job search elsewhere. It’s easy to let emotion get in the way when making a decision. Determine that walk-away number prior to the discussions and stick to it.
Are you ready for your next salary negotiation? CornerStone Staffing is now hiring for jobs in Fort Worth TX so call us today!