How to Ask for More Money After Receiving a Job Offer

After you land a job, there may follow a period in which salary for the position is negotiated. While some salaries are non-negotiable, many employers are willing to raise the compensation for a position if presented with a reasonable explanation. Those attempting to negotiate should not be afraid of losing the position after asking for more money. In fact, according to the Forbes website, some companies will be disappointed if you don't negotiate, as it will cause them to doubt your acumen in business.

Instructions

1. Do your research, advises The Washington Post website. Before beginning to negotiate, research how much a person in your position generally is paid. Check websites that track salaries, such as Payscale.com and Salary.com (see the Resources section), and ask people in similar positions at other organizations. Determine the salary that's competitive for a person of your experience in the position at the same type of company.

2. Prepare your explanation. You need to be able to fully detail why you deserve the higher salary. You may have more experience or education than the average applicant.

3. Calculate your "walk-away" number, according to The Washington Post website. If you're asking for more money, you should have a salary in mind that is the lowest amount for which you will work. Do not immediately reveal this number, but let your future employer know what that is when you are near the end of your negotiations.

4. Factor in benefits. Know the value of the benefits your company is offering you and, if you are willing, offer to give some of them up in exchange for a higher salary. For example, if you are covered by your spouse's health insurance policy, consider offering to trade this benefit for more money.

5. Speak to your contact in person, says Payscale.com. If possible, negotiations should not be conducted over email or by phone. It may be more difficult for an employer to turn down a request in person. Attempt to schedule a meeting with your future boss or the person in charge of salaries prior to your first day of work.

Tips & Warnings

• According to Forbes, don't reveal how much you made in your previous position because this number may be used as leverage to offer you less. Don't give a salary figure until your employer does. If asked, attempt to avoid the question.

References

• The Washington Post: How To... Negotiate Salary
• Forbes: How To Negotiate For A Better Salary, Even Now