How to Negotiate Salary and Moving Expenses

Negotiating a salary package usually includes relocation costs.

It can be uncomfortable, but salary negotiation is an important part of a successful job search. And when a new position requires a relocation, additional needs like finding a new place to live and packing up your existing home must be negotiated as well. Relocation costs are one-time, unique situations that should not interfere with fair compensation for a particular job.

Instructions

1. Be patient. It's important to wait for a formal salary discussion until after a job has been officially offered.

2. 

   Be prepared and informed by conducting your own research.

   Conduct your own research. Find out what other companies are paying for the same job or a similar position. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides an overview of wage data by area and occupation (see Resources). If your new job requires relocating, get cost estimates from three moving companies. Knowing your moving costs before a formal offer is made allows you to determine if any moving-expense allocation is adequate.

3. Be prepared with options. Many employers are willing to negotiate, but you also have to be willing. If applicable, discuss financial expectations and needs with family members. Create a list of your skills, past job experiences and abilities. Determine the lowest offer you're willing to accept. This could include agreeing to take on any relocation expenses yourself.

4. Negotiate in person or over the phone. Once an employee makes an offer, repeat the offer and then think about it. This informs the employer that you heard the offer and are considering it. If it meets your expectations, and you don't want to continue to negotiate, you can accept the offer. If it does not meet your expectations, begin discussing items you have prepared, such as your skills and abilities. You may have to disclose past salary history to justify your desired salary. The employer may accept your preference, counter-offer or consider the information and come back to you later with a decision.

5. 

   Accept a job offer with a firm handshake.

   Accept the offer. Thank the employer at the end of the negotiation for the job opportunity, and say you're looking forward to joining the organization.

Tips & Warnings

• Negotiate the most important benefits to you first. That way, if a negotiation ends abruptly, you may still receive your desired salary and other benefits. When negotiating in person or over the phone, look for changes in body language, word choice or even tone of voice -- as all may signal that you are possibly "over-negotiating."

References

• Monster.com; Deal or No Deal: Negotiating Salary; Cheryl Ferguson
• U.S. Department of State: Negotiating a Salary Package
• Speedupcareer.com: Negotiating Salary Tips

Resources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2010 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates