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Negotiate your salary like a pro.
When you are offered a job, it's a good idea to take time to consider it even if you plan to say "yes". Start by expressing your appreciation and strong interest in the job, and then request at least 24 hours to decide.
Since all future salary increases will be based on your starting pay, negotiating a higher pay rate can have a major long-term impact on your earnings. Try using the tips below to build your negotiating skill and confidence. Note that you should wait to ask about salary until you receive a job offer.
Make sure you fully understand the job offer
- Do you have a clear understanding of the job responsibilities? Who would you report to? Would others report to you?
- What is the work schedule? Does the job offer remote work or onsite only? What is the policy for vacation and sick leave? Is parking availalbe? How about onsite childcare?
- What is the salary offer? Are health and dental insurance, disability and life insurance included? Are medical and other pre-tax accounts offered? Is a retirement plan available?
- What training would you receive? Would there be education benefits or advancement potential?
Evaluate the offer for your needs
Talk over the job offer with trusted friends, family, or colleagues. Make a list of the pros and cons of the job offer, covering questions like these:
- Does the work look interesting and rewarding? Would it challenge you? Would you be able to achieve any of your long-term career or personal goals?
- Is the company culture a good fit? Do the employer's values generally fit yours? Check out Work Values Matcher to learn about work values.
- Is the salary fitting for your level of education, experience, and your location? Learn the typical salary for the field. Do you have outstanding qualifications that may justify asking for a higher salary?
- Are the schedule, commute, and working conditions appropriate for your needs and health? Can you afford to accept the salary, given your personal or family household budget?
- Some benefits may be worth more to you than a higher salary, such as health insurance, tuition reimbursement, training, more vacation time, a flexible schedule, stock options, a company car, onsite daycare, parking pririveges, or other.
Communicate positively and professionally
Keep a positive, open approach to negotiating, and avoid taking it personally. Base your requests on the value you would bring, your skills and experience. Do not use your need for the job or for more income to negotiate.
- In many cases, the first offer has negotiating room. In some sectors, salaries are firmly established, but you can always ask if there is flexibility in an offer.
- If the offer is for less than the typical pay for the field in your area, you can ask that they reconsider the salary offer, or provide an early salary review, such as in six months or after any probationary period.
- Don't be afraid to ask for additional benefits or flexibility that may be important to you. Keep your requests reasonable and brief. An employer may want to meet your needs but be limited by budget and policies.
- Not sure you want the job? Bring up your concerns and requests if they are minor, but if the nature of the job or company is the problem, politiely decline the offer.
- If you accept the job, ask for the offer in writing. If you turn down the offer, thank them for the offer and ask that they keep you in mind for future openings.