Salary Negotiation Tactics for the Modern Job Hunter

Finding the perfect job can be an exciting and rewarding experience. But more often than not, landing the right job also involves the daunting task of negotiating a salary. The good news is that there are some tactics you can use to negotiate a better salary for yourself. Here are some tips to help.

Do Your Homework

When you’re going into a salary negotiation, it’s important to do your homework beforehand. Research the average salary for your skillset, industry, and location to know whether your salary expectations are realistic. This will give you confidence when negotiating, because you’ll know that you’re asking for an appropriate amount.

Be Proactive

When it comes to salary negotiations, waiting is your worst enemy. As soon as you get a formal offer, arrange a time to talk to the employer and negotiate your salary. This will show the employer that you’re serious about taking the job and willing to speak up for yourself.

Know Your Priorities

Before any negotiations start, it’s important to understand what you’re asking for and why. Know what your non-negotiables and motivators are. This will help you draw the line in negotiations and focus on getting what matters most to you.

Start High

It’s likely that the employer will counter your offer with a lower one. Start the negotiation with a higher salary than you would accept, so you can always come down slightly in the negotiations without losing the value of the offer. By doing this, you can appear firm and confident.

Be Professional and Polite

When it comes to salary negotiations, the key is to remain professional throughout. Even when pushed into a corner, it’s important to stay polite and courteous. This will help build a good relationship between you and the employer and make it more likely that you’ll get a good offer.

Know When to Stop Negotiating

When negotiating, it’s important to know when to quit. Employers are likely to have a certain budget for the position, and if your offers exceed that amount then it could be a dealbreaker. Know your limits and be willing to accept an offer that meets your needs without pushing too hard.

Conclusion

Salary negotiations can be tricky, but by following these tips you can make sure you secure the best possible offer. Do your homework, be proactive, know your priorities, start high, be professional and polite, and know when to stop negotiating. Good luck!