These Two Negotiation Tips Will Get You the Number You’re Looking For
Posted July 11th, 2017
You’ve done it! The interview went great, and now you’re sitting with a job offer in your hands. While it may seem like the hard part is over, there is one more step you need to take before starting the position: Negotiating the salary. And whether you’ve never done it before or this isn’t your first time to the negotiating table, it can be an anxiety-inducing experience.
But there’s no need to fret. These two negotiating tips can help you navigate this tough conversation like a pro, and can make it easier to get the number you’re hoping to see.
Don’t Negotiate Against Yourself
When it comes time to discuss salary, the hiring manager may ask you what you’re hoping to make. While this can seem innocuous, having you throw out the first number actually puts you at a disadvantage, and should be avoided at all costs.
Unless a salary range was clearly posted in the job description, you likely only have a vague idea of what the company is willing to pay. By providing a number first, you’re setting the starting point of the negotiation, and this can backfire if you aren’t well informed regarding the going rate for someone working in a similar position for a comparable employer.
If the hiring manager asks you to for a number, turn the conversation around instead of stating the desired salary. Ask them what the going rate is for someone with similar skills at the company or if they have a particular range in mind. Often, they’ll respond with a dollar amount.
Now, you have an idea of what they are hoping to pay, and you can compare that to your expectations or any research you’ve conducted. This puts you in a more powerful position and makes it easier to reach a salary that makes you comfortable.
Don’t Overshoot
When it comes time to negotiate, it can be tempting to shoot for the stars in hopes of landing on an obscene number. However, if you aim too high, you can actually kill the conversation before it even begins.
A salary negotiation is about finding a point of mutual benefit. You need to make enough to feel that your skills are properly valued, but the company also must settle on a number they can reasonably afford and feel is proper for the work you’re doing. If you push too high, they may think you’re unreasonable or have unrealistic expectations. If that occurs, they may decide you aren’t the right candidate for the job and could pull the offer entirely.
Instead of running that risk, make sure to research what people in similar positions make based on the current job market. This can also serve as a personal reality check as you have a greater understanding of what your skills mean in today’s economy. Then, compare these numbers to their starting offer and see if they somewhat align. Ideally, you and the hiring manager will be able to find something that meets your expectations based on the research that doesn’t fall outside of what the business is comfortable offering.
However, if the company isn’t able to offer a salary that falls within the industry standards, it’s possible the position isn’t the right fit. And, if so, it is perfectly reasonable to walk away from the offer if it doesn’t meet your needs.
If you are interested in finding new opportunities based on your skills and experience, the recruiters at Bayside Solutions can connect you with suitable employers in the area. Contact us to discuss your career goals and see how our services can help.
