NEGOTIATE YOUR BEST SALARY
The best time to negotiate your new salary is after you are offered a job offer and before you accept it. Knowing that your future employer is keen to hire you provides you with the perfect bargaining opportunity to claim the salary you deserve.
First off, you need to be able to convince your employer that you are the best person for the job, and worth the money they are about to spend on you, so preparation is key!
Have a number in mind before you walk into the interview. Do some research and determine your value.
If your interviewer asks you what salary you are prepared to accept give them a general number at the top of the range that has already been discussed for the role.
If they ask for a more specific number, consider your current salary package, including all your existing benefits, and then add on a little more to bargain with.
Don’t forget to factor in other expenses. Will you need to relocate? Will the company contribute to these expenses?
Don’t shy away from bargaining. If you have another job offer on the table use it as leverage. Having two offers gives you the added advantage of choice… make the most of it.
Don’t bully, or give an ultimatum. You need to negotiate in such a way as to ensure that the company feels that they have got the best deal. Keep convincing them of your potential value to the company
Don’t be forced to rush into anything. If specific numbers are discussed at the interview stage, ask for time to ‘think about it’ before you agree.
If this is your dream job you may need to be a little more flexible – if the salary is lower than expected, consider the positives that may come with job satisfaction. Also, check to see how soon after you begin working you can expect a pay review, or a promotion.
And finally, before you agree or sign anything make sure that you have the offer down in writing, clearly stating your pay package. Ask for a breakdown, reflecting all deductions as well as the amount you will take out at the end of the day.
Ultimately your decision will be based on a number of options – be open and honest about your intentions. Continue to be positive throughout the negotiations and give the impression that you want the best solution for all parties involved.