Negotiating Salary

From the first interview with a company, it is important to communicate how your experience, skills, and accomplishments will benefit an organization. As an employer becomes more interested in you as a candidate, they may be more willing to negotiate with you after an initial offer.

• It is important that you first understand the negotiation process. The purpose of a negotiation is to reach a mutual agreement between you and the employer. It should in no way be confrontational.
• You should avoid discussing salary until you have been offered the position or until an employer brings the subject up. The employer may have concerns that you have “misplaced priorities” if you bring up the subject of salary too soon.
• Know your worth: Base what you believe your salary should be on average salaries in your field and position, years of experience, location of the position, and competition. Online resources such as Salary.com, Salary.monster.com or bls.gov can help you with your research.
• Provide evidence and information. It’s not enough to simply say that you believe you deserve more. You need to be able to give examples of why you warrant a certain salary.
• It is not only about salary, benefits are important as well. You should consider other fringe benefits including health insurance, a retirement savings plan, vacation/personal days, opportunities to grow professionally, travel, overtime pay, etc.