English
English
SpanishThere are many anxiety-inducing aspects of a job search, particularly when it comes to salary negotiation. Discussing money can always be an uncomfortable conversation for several reasons. First, you don’t want to leave money on the table. At the same time, you don’t want to ask for too much and lose the offer.
How can you strike the right balance and get the salary you want? Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
6 Tips To Getting The Salary You Desire
#1: Know the numbers
Don’t walk into a conversation about salary without doing your homework. Make sure you’ve researched average compensation in your area using a salary calculator. If you know what the average wages are for someone with your experience and in your geographic location, then you’ll have firm ground to stand on with your salary ask.
#2: Identify your goals
This might sound straightforward in terms of salary, but it takes a little homework. For instance, if you want to ask for $10k more than you’re making now, what does that actually translate into in terms of a weekly paycheck? It might be more or less than you realize, so it’s important to crunch the numbers ahead of time.
#3: Ask for a range
Don’t go into the talks with an exact number in mind. Instead, have a range you’re willing to discuss, with the top number being your maximum goal and the bottom being the least you will accept. Oftentimes, you’ll be able to meet in the middle where you’re both comfortable.
#4: Think beyond money
While salary is important, so are health benefits, retirement options, and other perks. So make sure you’re discussing these areas too and factoring them into your decision. For instance, if a position is on the lower side of your salary range, but offers excellent opportunities for career growth and advancement and great benefits, then it might be worth accepting. Consider the whole picture before you make a decision.
#5: Be okay with walking away
It’s never a good idea to accept a salary you’re not comfortable with. Not only can this impact your quality of life, but your future career earnings. Instead, make your bottom line clear and if the company can’t meet it, then walk away amicably.
#6: Work with an employment agency
If you’d like help with your negotiations, work with an employment agency. They can give you a sense of what to expect, salary-wise, so you don’t waste time with employers who can’t meet your expectations.
At the same time, recruiters are natural negotiators and can be neutral observers who have the best interest of both sides in mind. This can help you and the company achieve a deal that is mutually beneficial.
Get help with your job search from OneSource Staffing Solutions
With more than 40 years of experience, we’re the employment agency that’s connected across PA, NY, and FL. We can help you with every aspect of your search, including negotiations, so you land the salary you want. Search our jobs now to get started.
