Once an offer has been made, the way is open for negotiation. This includes not only salary, but things like start date, vacations, relocation expenses and bonuses. All of these things are part of a total compensation package and can be negotiated right along with salary. Concentrate on getting the salary you want first, and then move on to the non-cash benefits of the job.
Here are some things to remember when negotiating an employment opportunity.
1. Don’t hesitate to negotiate. It is expected in most situations that there will be negotiation after an offer is made. Making reasonable requests is not going to get an offer rescinded. But keep in mind that everything you do or say at this point reflects upon the type of employee you will be. Remain professional, reasonable and confident. If you don’t have any experience negotiating, practice with a friend or study some of the resources available on the negotiation process.
2. Don’t immediately take the first offer made to you. No matter how tempting it is, at least give yourself some time to think about it. Mull it over for 24 hours and put a negotiation strategy into place. Make sure you don’t have any other questions about the job. Also, accepting too quickly can be an indication to them that they offered too much!
3. Don’t tell them your current salary. That has no bearing on this new position since it is a new company, new job, new everything! If pressed, answer that you received fair compensation at your last position and that you are now focused on this opportunity and would be happy to discuss salary once an offer is made.
4. Always stay positive and enthusiastic. Don’t let anything negative creep into the negotiating discussions. Remember you love everything about the job, the company and you are the best qualified candidate.
5. Don’t give up if salary negotiations don’t go your way. That’s ok. This does not reflect negatively on you as long as you don’t get emotional about it. Don’t show hurt or anger, just remain businesslike and logical. And remember you can still negotiate things like vacations, educational assistance, or bonuses.
An offer has been made and it is clear that they want to hire you. You will likely never have more power in this employment setting than you do right now. Think carefully about what is important to you and request it in a reasonable way. You and the interviewer have a common goal-for you to work there. Keep your common goal in mind and you will find that negotiating can be friendly and very productive.
By: Becky Papp
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