How to Negotiate a Salary Plus Commission
One of the trickiest part of a job interview or a job offer is the negotiation that takes place over a prospective employee's base salary and commission rate. While you shouldn't immediately raise the issue of compensation during a job interview, if you progress far enough along the route to a position, the issue will come up. When it does, there are several guidelines to keep in mind and steps to take to enhance your bargaining position.
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Instructions
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Determine how much you are worth. List your skills and the experience you bring to the table. While a company may not agree you're worth as much as you determine, having a list of your accomplishments, the positive qualities you bring to the table and the results you've achieved in other jobs can help you make your case when negotiating for a higher salary or better commission. Talk to others in the field (or at the company) to determine what the market pays for an employee with your experience.
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Allow your employer or prospective employer to raise the issue of compensation. Avoid raising the issue right away during a job interview. If you reach the end of the interview and the company has said nothing about salary and commission, politely bring up the issue and ask about the salary requirements.
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Keep a minimum salary and commission requirement in your head during negotiations. To successfully negotiate your salary and additional compensation, you need to know the lowest amount of money you will accept. Once negotiations drop below that number, it is time to thank the prospective employer and decline the job.
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Be flexible during your negotiations. No matter how much you feel you're worth, the company may not see eye-to-eye with you on salary requirements or simply might not have the bankroll to accommodate you. This is where you need to assess whether or not the job is worth it. If the base salary isn't exactly what you want, see whether you can make up the difference by proposing a higher commission on sales. Or assess the growth potential of the job. If you think there is a reasonable chance you can advance, a foot in the door at a lower salary could be worth it in the long run.
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Keep your cool. If the employer offers you a salary and a commission rate, nod your head and consider it. Avoid giving any sign that you approve or disapprove of the salary right away. Once offers are on the table, whether for a salary or commission rate, this period of silent consideration on your part can enhance your bargaining position and motivate the employer to raise their offer.
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