Okay, so you have done your part. You have submitted your resume, cleared the initial interviews, and successfully received a job offer.
Except the salary was not what you were hoping for it to be.
How do you negotiate a higher salary before accepting a job offer? Here are a few tips and tricks to navigate this complex situation.
Evaluate Your Skills and Qualifications
Before replying to a job offer, contemplate what you can contribute to the company first.
What skills and qualifications can you bring to the organization that will benefit them?
Some factors that can influence the figure you give include your years of experience, career level, niche, certifications, and licenses (if any).
You should also consider your location. Think about where you are working remotely, which matters, especially if it is in a region with a lower cost of living.
If not, factor in possible expenses you might incur to your overall asking salary.
Research About the Average Salary in the Industry
Once you have figured out what you bring to the table, it’s time to research.
First, look into the average salary for the position you are applying for. You can use this information as a benchmark.
Again, the amount you add on top of the industry average depends on the factors mentioned above.
However, your research will give you a good idea of how much the company should initially offer you. If it’s lower than what you expected, take that as a cue to negotiate your job offer.
Try Out With a Friend
Of course, before sending in an invitation for a discussion, practice how to negotiate salary in a job offer with a close friend first.
You need to start your preparation by answering the question: why do you deserve higher pay?
Some of the justifications you can use are your previous achievements at work. You can also point out how long you have been in the industry and your current level.
Lastly, you can back up your target salary with the research you have done. (Something like, “This is the current industry standard for this position.”)
Start With Gratitude
When you have finally set an appointment, make sure to thank your potential employers first.
Let them know how you appreciate being considered for the position and that you are thankful for their offer before proceeding to the negotiation.
Ask if they have flexibility. If the company cannot grant your request, you can ask for non-monetary benefits instead.
You can seek other perks like working from home or extra paid time off to compensate for the lower salary.
Flexibility should not only come from the company but from you too.
Get Ready to Answer Challenging Questions
As it is a negotiation, expect the other party to have questions as well. Your future employer will want to know if you are worth the offer.
Other questions they might ask are, “Are we your top choice?” or “Do you have any other offers?”
At this point, it is best not to lie. Don’t fabricate job offers out of thin air. If you have received opportunities from other companies, let the hiring manager know.
Recruiters often exchange information. If you are caught lying, it won’t end well for you.
Remember, be confident, and stay calm.
Bonus Tip: Dress Well
If you have an in-person interview, always dress the part.
You will appear like someone who knows what they are doing. Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed to avoid looking sloppy. Wear shoes that fit you.
The same goes for an online interview (although, your employer will only see the top half of your body).
Doing so sends a message that you have high standards for yourself, which also reflects your work ethic.
Final Word
Discussing your salary is often, if not always, uncomfortable. It needs a delicate balance between demanding what you know you deserve and working with what the company can afford to give.
Still, negotiation is a skill. You need to practice it if you want to be better at it.
On that note, Remote Staff has job openings for remote workers with a competitive salary. The company has been in business for over 15 years and has helped many by providing work-from-home opportunities. Register today and be part of the team!
