Part of what makes a job interview successful is negotiating the benefits you’ll receive when you land the position.
Typically, this means discussing your salary when you sign your employment contract.
However, there are several other benefits besides money that you can negotiate with your potential employer during your job interview.
In fact, for many workers today, these non-salary compensation are just as crucial, if not more so, as their actual pay. Foremost is being able to work from home.
Besides working via online jobs, what other benefits should you negotiate with your potential employer during your job interview? Here are some of them:
Your Starting Date
A benefit that many fail to negotiate is their starting date.
This can be useful when you still have loose ends to tie up in your previous job, need time to gather requirements, or set up your remote workstation.
When negotiating this during your interview, explain why you need more time before you officially start. If your employer requires you to work immediately, find a middle ground that works for the two of you.
A Flexible Setup
One of the most commonly cited benefits of working from home is having a flexible work schedule. Many employers allow employees flexibility with their schedules and work hours as long as they accomplish their daily tasks.
However, companies have been offering this setup even before the pandemic – according to a 2013 survey conducted by Catalyst.
This flexibility allows you to work during your best hours or have time for personal commitments. It’s especially beneficial for work-from-home moms or people who work best at night.
How do you negotiate this with your employer? First, research whether the company offers this option and how flexible they are about it. Then, discuss what hours work best for you before you proceed.
Maternity and/or Paternity Leave
Planning to have a child soon? If so, one of the most crucial benefits you should negotiate during your job interview is your maternity/paternity leave.
In a nutshell, maternity leave is provided to female employees during pregnancy and childbirth. While paternity leave is given to male employees whose wives are about to go through the same.
Even though maternity/paternity leaves are mandated by Philippine law, you should still discuss this during the interview and know your employer’s policies. Additionally, this can help you negotiate how to return to the office once it elapses.
Job Title
Sometimes, the job title on the ad doesn’t match the responsibilities they require you to do. This could be an issue as you’ll get a workload and salary that doesn’t fit your supposed role in the company.
Point this out to your employer during the interview so they can clarify your role and responsibilities – and make adjustments if needed.
Health Insurance
Although Covid is no longer a threat, having stable health insurance remains a great way to keep you and your family safe.
Good health insurance can help you save a lot of money if you or one of your beneficiaries need urgent medical care.
Thus, when negotiating your health insurance coverage during your interview, remember to ask about the start date, percentage, the option to choose a desired health plan, and the possibility of extended coverage if you get laid off.
Personal Development and Career Growth Plans
Aiming for a higher position in the near future? Your new employer can help you with that.
Today, many companies offer career development programs and opportunities for promotion. These include skills workshops, online courses, and mentorship programs.
Aside from helping you stay updated with the latest developments in your field, these also improve employee retention and enable companies to access specific skills without hiring additional employees.
To help you negotiate this benefit, research or inquire about what career development opportunities the company offers and whether these are aligned with your goals.
Vacation Time
Believe it or not, you can negotiate extra vacation days during your interview, especially if you’re highly qualified.
Some even allow you to discuss when you can start taking paid leaves.
When negotiating this benefit, consider when you’ll most likely need your time off, such as during Christmas or summer. Also, remember to ask about whether you can cash in your unused leaves at the end of the year.
Ready to Negotiate?
For many applicants, the job’s salary is the first (and only) thing they consider when negotiating during job interviews.
However, don’t forget to negotiate the benefits mentioned above during your job interview as well. These can give you a much healthier work-life balance and enhance your experience at work as well.
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