Salary and Benefits Must Be Negotiated
There comes a point in every successful job interview when it’s time to talk money. Although many individuals tend to fear salary negotiation and often avoid it, negotiations are essential in maximizing salary offers. The first thing to understand is that salary is negotiable. More often than not, more money really can be had by simply asking for it. In other cases, when salary turns out to be fixed and non-negotiable, other benefits, such as additional vacation time, can be negotiated.
Starting Salary and Negotiation Strategy
You wouldn’t pass by a crisp $100 bill lying on the ground, would you? Well, you’re passing by considerably more than that if you don’t negotiate your salary properly when starting a new job. While every Salary Negotiation Strategy is important, the first negotiation matters most. Your starting salary will determine the number that all future raises are based on. For instance, a 3% raise each year will be larger if based on a higher starting salary. That can add up to a significant amount of money over just a few years. Starting salary with a company is also an important component of your salary history. Should you change jobs, your salary history will become part of negotiations with your next employer.
Preparation is Essential
Whether you are getting ready to negotiate salary with a new employer or are currently employed and seeking a raise, preparation is essential. Being prepared with relevant research will demonstrate that you have solid reason for the dollar figure that you are seeking. Not only should you know the pay range of your job, but you should have it documented and ready to present.
Successful negotiators must be able to justify why they should be paid the higher end of that range. Go For It! Career Consulting can help you do just that. Not only will preparation help convince your prospective or current employer of your worth, but documentation will give them concrete material to back up the decision.
