The job application process can be very stressful, from the applications themselves to interviews with representatives. But it’s worth the effort when you receive your job offer! Now it’s time to consider the benefits of the offer, like negotiating your salary. This topic is one many don’t feel comfortable discussing, especially with all the events going on in today’s society. However, if you have special skills and extensive background, you could be selling yourself short. The best way to negotiate your salary is to prepare for it. Here are the dos and don’ts of negotiating your salary: 

DO Know Industry Salary Trends

Having a current and practical understanding of the compensation for your field will assist you in the process. This assessment will provide an ideal picture of the salary you should expect based on your experience levels and capabilities. There are many salary guides available for job seekers online to assist in this process. The better understanding you have, the more confident you are when it’s time for the discussion. 

DO Highlight Why

Once you receive your offer, don’t just counter with a higher number. The research may support it, but you also have to convey why you feel you deserve more. Showcase your strengths while discussing how this benefits the firm you’re seeking to work with. Write down and review relevant examples of your skills and how it benefits the company’s goals. Including this information will help strengthen your case for a higher salary. 

DO Consider Perks and Benefits

Salary negotiations sometimes include employee benefits; sometimes the value of the benefits is higher than one may think. It may be less cost-consuming for a company to offer extra vacation days, a flexible schedule, or better health benefits than adding more money to the position. Consider the value of the benefits offered and what you value as well to make an informed decision. 

DON’T Embellish the Truth 

Be completely honest about your history and skills when negotiating a salary. If you tell the hiring manager something that turns out to be false, you increase the risk of losing the offer or going into the position with coworkers being cautious about your abilities.

DON’T Wing It

Just like the interview process, don’t go into negotiations without some preparation. Practice the conversation with someone else, preferably someone from the corporate world who can teach you about protruding confidence and answering unexpected questions. This process also helps you feel more comfortable when starting the negotiation process. 

DON’T Forget to Have Everything In Writing

Once you and the hiring personnel come to an agreement for salary and the overall compensation package, ask for written documents reflecting the changes. The document ensures no misunderstandings later on and should be signed by both parties. Companies usually provide this for you, but it’s always good to ensure this as well. 

Ensure you don’t make the negotiations only about you. The company needs a great employee; focusing only on yourself can create a negative interaction. Also,  ensure while you negotiate to not extend the process more than needed as it can frustrate the hiring manager, starting your relationship off on the wrong foot. Utilizing and implementing these tips will create an easy flowing and comfortable discussion for the salary you deserve. Staff Solve continues to provide high-quality candidates and jobs in diverse markets for over 27 years. Let us take the stress off you so you can focus on your business by finding the perfect applicant for the position. If you are looking for employment, please visit our job seeker page. If you would like more information about the services we offer employers, visit our employer page or contact us today.