So, you have finally been invited to an interview. Everything seems to be prepared, but the excitement does not leave you. How to negotiate a salary? Is it possible to bargain for the most favorable conditions? Or it is better not to take risks?
First of all, it is very important to understand what level of pay you can qualify for. Do some research on the job market. Find out the typical salary range and possible bonuses for the position you are interested in, based on the specifics of the position, the industry, the nature of the company and geographical location. You can read more here.
Prioritize what you want when it comes to your benefits. For example, it is most important for you to have even a moderate, but stable salary. Or, conversely, the possibility of unlimited earnings through high commissions with a minimum fixed part.
So,
10 tips for negotiating a salary with your future employer
1. Act with confidence.
This is a key factor for a successful interview. After all, if you correctly assess your value in the labor market, as described above, the power is on your side.
2. Show the employer your value.
Explain why you think you’re worthy of the salary you’re asking for. Back up your words with an account of not only your professional competencies but also your professional accomplishments. In addition refer to your research on the labor market.
3. Direct the conversation in such a way that the employer is the first to unveil their figures.
This way you will be in a better position. Ask the employer what can be discussed and what can’t, and what benefits in addition to the salary he is willing to offer.
4. Don’t disclose too much information about your current or recent income.
By telling your employer what your real earnings are, you can fall into the trap of having it used against you. Although, if you are confident, you can even show proof of your current salary.
5. Be prepared for counteroffers.
The employer may offer you something from their side, so you should think beforehand what to say in this case. Also, for example, you may have to compromise on some benefits in exchange for a higher salary or vice versa.
6. Look at the entire compensation package and other benefits in the aggregate.
This includes salary, bonuses, health insurance, provision of housing, gasoline, working conditions and other tangible benefits.
7. Consider your long-term career prospects at that company.
It may make sense to accept a lower salary for the sake of a promising future. Or, conversely, you might demand maximum pay and free milk for such a hard job. :-)
8. Know your own worth.
Do not bend under the employer, agreeing to conditions that are obviously unacceptable to you. If your employer is not willing to offer reasonable wages, then it’s probably time to go.
9. Negotiate competently and calmly.
Maintain a professional demeanor throughout the entire “bargaining” process and do not succumb to emotion or the desire to challenge the employer’s statements. Keep your position calm.
Remember that the final salary is the result of a negotiation between two parties. Equal parties.
10. Record all your agreements with the employer in writing.
After negotiations, make a written protocol summarizing what was agreed upon. This may be a job offer, but in fact no one forbids you to write down the main points you have reached during every stage until you receive an official job offer.
Such a document will allow both parties to clearly understand what was agreed to, reducing the likelihood that the employer will later backtrack.
After all, it would be especially frustrating if you quit your current job, and it turns out that you misunderstood each other.
Well, I wish you to successfully negotiate a decent salary and – a lot of good bonuses!