Negotiating Salary for your New Job

If you’ve been offered your dream job, but the salary package is really unacceptable, what should you do? Accept what you’re offered just to get the job, or negotiate for what you think you’re worth?

First of all, if you’re offered the job, don’t accept right then and there. Thank the employer for the offer, but state that while you’re very interested in the job, you need some time to evaluate the compensation package. Very few employers will mind giving you some time for this—if an employer presses you for an immediate decision, it might be wise to consider whether this really is a “dream job”.

When negotiating with the employer it’s important to play to your strengths. If you’re a strong and persuasive verbal communicator, ask for a meeting at which to discuss your counter-offer. If written communication is your stronger suit, write a counter-proposal letter instead.

During the meeting or in the letter, consider these negotiation tips to help you get the salary and benefits package that you feel you’re worth. Your goal should not only be getting a good deal for yourself, it should also be to let your employer feel that they also got a good deal.

• Ask for a higher salary than you want—for example, if you want $40,000 ask for $45,000. This is a basic strategy for bargaining that allows the employer to return with a counter-proposal that will be less than you asked for, but closer to what you really want.
• When presenting your initial counter-proposal, include one or two benefits that aren’t that important to you. As negotiations continue, you can drop these from your requirements as a concession to your employer.
• If the employer refuses to negotiate on salary, move to other negotiable areas such as more frequent performance reviews and raises, signing bonus, or higher performance bonuses.
• Maintain a positive attitude—don’t be confrontational or defensive. State your case calmly and politely, and keep in mind that you may be working with or for the person you’re negotiating with.
• Never stop reminding your employer of your enthusiasm for the job, and the ways in which you will benefit the company.
• Negotiations are over once the employer agrees to your proposal. You risk appearing greedy by asking for more—and the employer may even withdraw the job offer.
• Get the final agreement in writing.

Still Stuck?  Try using the "The Job Interview Secret"

Also, please review our Free Interview Tips section.  If you need more help, please consider using a Career Counselor.