Negotiating a Job Offer

When an employer calls you after a job interview, be prepared to negotiate a job offer that meets your goals. It isn't always easy to figure out how to do this, so the information below should be of great help to you.

Negotiating your terms of employment

Before walking into the employer's door to negotiate your terms of employment, know what an employee in a comparable position is paid. Sometimes an employer may even ask you to name your salary and then they will negotiate from that point. Other times a company may have a pay scale and negotiating a salary isn't necessary.

If an employer makes you an offer that you think is a somewhat low for your position, don't be afraid to ask for more. Remember, the employer picked you for the job because they want you. That gives you an edge. But be careful not to come across as greedy. If applicants in your position usually make between $45,000 and $50,000 per year, don't ask for $65,000. The employer can show you the door out just as easily as they showed you the door in. Negotiating a salary must be done carefully.

You are also going to be in a better negotiating position if you know what your skills are worth - and what people in similar positions are being paid. Do your research and go into salary negotiating with the knowledge necessary to negotiate well.

Is it OK to talk about signing bonuses as well as future raises? You can negotiate a raise (the time frame and percentage) while you're negotiating a job offer. The same deal goes for job titles and promotions. Depending upon your position, you may also qualify for a year-end bonus. Don't make too many demands about the bonus since it will be based on the work you'll do over the year and not your starting credentials.

It is possible that a variety of non-financial items up for discussion as well.

Find out if the company offers:

• Health and dental insurance
• Help with student loans
• Use of a company car
• Reimbursement for gas and mileage
• Moving expenses
• 401 K and/or stock options
• Long-term care insurance
• Disability insurance
• Sick days

These can be very important since they do impact the "bottom line" for you. There are other fringe benefits you should check into as well. Does your job have other perks such as a health club membership or an expense account?

Finally, as about vacation days as they also may be on the table for discussion. Two weeks is standard for a first job (or a new job), but if you are farther up the corporate ladder, expect and even ask for more. Even if you are just starting your career, perhaps you could ask for a couple extra "personal" days that can be used at anytime.

Negotiating a job offer requires a little research and a little effort, but it pays off in the short-term and the long-term.

More on Negotiating a Job Offer Here:

If you want to know how to negotiate a salary, you need to read this article. There is more to it than simply asking for more money.
How to Negotiate a Salary

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