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SpanishJob interviews can be nerve-wracking. You may feel judged and put on the spot, no matter how kind and professional the interviewer is. But it’s important to remember that, much like a date, a job interview is a two-way street. You’re not only there for the interviewer to determine whether you’re right for the position. You’re also there to determine if the employer is right for you.
It’s impossible to make that determination without talking about the things you are looking for, such as salary, hours, and working conditions. The worst the interviewer can say is “no,” and if you don’t ask, you probably won’t get what you want. Here are some tips for discussing what you want from the position.
Research
Whatever you’re asking for needs to be realistic. If you’re in an industry well known for rotating shifts and mandatory overtime, you’re not likely to get an 8-5 Monday through Friday guarantee. If similar positions in your area pay $12 per hour, asking for $35 per hour is a waste of everyone’s time. Do your homework and set goals that are reasonable and in line with local industry standards.
Know Your Value
Many candidates ask for too little because they’re not confident in their own worth. If you have 10 years’ experience in your industry, there is no reason to settle for an entry-level salary. If you bring specialized knowledge to the table, it may be worth extra to an employer. Make a case for what you have to offer and why it’s worth whatever you’re asking for.
Be Open to Negotiations
You probably won’t get everything you ask for. But are there alternatives that you could accept? Maybe the employer can’t offer a higher pay rate, but she is willing to guarantee that you never have to work overnights. Perhaps you can’t get two weeks of vacation time, but you can work a flex schedule that lets you build up additional PTO hours. Think about which conditions are dealbreakers for you and which are open for negotiation.
Unless you’re going to work at a big tech company, you probably won’t get a nap pod, onsite yoga classes, and catered lunches. But you may be able to get a better salary or extra fringe benefits. Research the industry norms in your area, make a pitch for why you’re worth it and be ready to negotiate. Ultimately, the worst your interviewer can say is “no,” so why not give it a try?
Ready for a New Position?
If you’re ready to take the next steps on your career journey, OneSource Staffing is here for you. To learn how we can assist you with finding your next position in Port Jervis, NY, visit our job board today.
