Getting The Salary You Deserve
9/2/2009
Negotiating a great offer...
by Becky Mease... 9/2/2009 Upon any new hiring, a professional should know and be able to justify their true worth. Salary demands or requirements are now becoming a part of the interview process for many companies. Not knowing what the average salary for the position is, or even stating what wages you require to begin working with a company is a mistake. Many of us feel uncomfortable or even nervous when asked the simple question, “What are your salary requirements if you were to come work for us?” While it may be unnerving, it’s your responsibility to be prepared for such a question, and acquiring some negotiating skills could benefit you as well. How To Get The Salary You Want The most important aspect of any interview is to go to it prepared. You already know you’re perfect for the job, and now it’s time to sell yourself to those that matter. Be sure to know what your weaknesses are as well as your strengths; they’re going to ask. They may even ask what you liked best and least about your previous job, and go so far as inquiring about your salary there. Many new possible employers ask you to model or give examples of unique situations that you have dealt with in that position. It’s best to be honest and forthcoming with your answers because they can be easily verified. By fluently painting the interviewers a picture of your expertise through questions and answers, you also show them of your true worth. This will come in handy when finally asked of salary requirements and/or the negotiating process of obtaining the salary you deserve. If the interview has gone smoothly to this point, then a sort of report has been established between all parties. Ask what they’re base-level salary for the position is, and if it acceptable then you only need to take steps for future salary increases. In other words, explain that you feel comfortable with the base-level salary, but expect to be evaluated for your performance within 60 days or three months. This shows the interviewers, and company, that you are wiling to adapt to company policies and have the strength and confidence in yourself to achieve the goals you’ve set in getting that raise. Benefits, along with a fair salary, are ideal in any job. These negotiations should also be included in your discussion, and should never be forgotten. Some companies may offer laptops, cell phone usage, and may even give a clothing or tool allowance. Expense accounts as well as vacation time should also be addressed during this time. Just remember, your ideal salary should never be compromised in exchange for benefits that take money out of your pocket. Your confidence, skill level, and presentation are what will get you in the position with the salary you require. Some possible employers may state that your wage requirement is too high for them. Just remind them that they will be saving money by hiring you, and the company can only benefit from utilizing your experience and skills with proof being in the increased productivity once you begin to work for them. What To Do If You Can’t Get The Salary You Require Not every company is going to be bowled over by your skills and what you can bring to their company. If this is the case, and they simple cannot meet your salary requirements, there are other ways to get the most out of the hiring negotiations. - Before you commit to taking their offered salary, tell them you need some time to think about it. If said position is in need of filling immediately, your absence of responding may push them towards giving you the wages you want. This is a risk you may have to take, and it doesn’t always work. However, it’s worth it if it gets you the money you want- just don’t go more than a week without getting back to them.
- Again, if the company cannot meet your salary requirements, you may be able to negotiate better, or more benefits than originally agreed upon. It’s worth inquiring about.
- If the position is a yearly salary position, rather than hourly, you may want to question the possibility of compensation for any work completed over full-time salary hours. Salary positions don’t always provide for overtime, and this is a good way of getting paid for the extra work you do.
- If in fact you are being considered by another, or rival, company; don’t be afraid to bring that to the table as well. Inform them that their company is the one you wish to work for, but you need to go where it’s going to benefit you the most.
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