How to Respond to a Job Offer Negotiating a Higher Salary

It's always best to negotiate salary face-to-face.

While getting a job offer is definitely cause for celebration, you shouldn’t relax, because the hard work isn’t over yet. Once you have that offer, you should start to think about the terms of your employment, especially salary. Most companies will offer some room for negotiation over compensation, especially if you have desirable skills. Make sure you go into this negotiation well prepared.

Instructions

1. Research what the position is worth within the industry. You have to know what’s reasonable to understand what to ask for. If you have contacts within the company, seek information on salaries for similar positions. Also look at websites such as PayScale and Vault or the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics to check regional standards in the industry.

2. Decide both your optimum salary and your absolute bottom line before entering the negotiation. You should be clear in your mind what the job is worth to you.

3. Respond to the company’s offer, saying while you're very interested in the position, you'd like to discuss how to make the financial picture work for you. Try to schedule a face-to-face meeting for this negotiation.

4. Don’t give away your figure up front, once you’re in the negotiation. You should always try to deflect direct questions about the salary you're seeking. Have the interviewer name a figure first. This puts you in control of the negotiation. Ask for the range the company has in mind.

5. Be respectful. Salary negotiation is an expected part of the hiring process. You don’t need to be embarrassed or nervous about it, nor should you be overconfident or arrogant. Remain affable and collegial throughout the negotiation.

6. Sell your unique skills. The company has already indicated it wants to hire you. Make clear why you're worth the salary you're seeking. Come up with a list of the benefits you bring as an employee.

7. Consider other forms of compensation if there is no flexibility on salary. Most companies will be prepared to offer a signing bonus, relocation package or stock options as one-time benefits.

References

• Forbes; How to Negotiate for a Better Salary, Even Now; Tara Weiss; June 23, 2009
• “Washington Post”; How to – Negotiate Salary; Sakina Rangwala