Blog.Careermidway.Com

After having done all the hard work during the job interview, you need to ensure that you bargain well for the product that you have come to sell: yourself. However, you need to be careful that the negotiation is carried out in a tactful manner so that your confidence in your abilities is not perceived as arrogance. Here are some tips:

1. Timing. Keep the salary negotiation for the end, even if the interviewer repeatedly asks the question or makes an offer during the middle of the interview in a bid to settle on a lower figure.
2. Sales bid. Keep selling your tangible Unique Selling Point (USP), so that you can then relate it to your eventual salary demand.
3. Salary range. When asked about salary expectations, ask what the range is; this will tell you whether your demand is within acceptable limits. The standard practice is to seek 40% over and above what you are presently earning. This could vary subject to industry, function and position. Try agreeing on the basic salary first before discussing perks and other non-monetary benefits.
4. Benefits. Obtain as many details as you can about the benefits. If you are forced to settle for a lower salary, these benefits can be used to compensate for the gap.
5. Tact. Aim to achieve a solution that suits both parties. In case of an unacceptable offer, decline politely in order to maintain a good rapport with the interviewer.
6. Be flexible.  Although money is vital, character is more significant. By appearing to be fixated on money, you may appear stubborn or too materialistic.
7. Don’t rush.  Delay the decision for at least 48 hours to consult with experts, seniors, family members and a mentor.