At the end of interview the all important question pops up, the question you have been waiting for, throughout the whole interview how do you answer it? This is often the most difficult question that is faced to the job seeker, often making them feel on edge. Most understandably when it comes to talking about “money”, the job seeker can become embarrassed, anxious and reluctant to discuss salary. Advice from your friends and family pop into your head such as “don’t mention salary details at an interview” and “don’t you bring up salary details first”.
So when you are faced with this question how do you prepare yourself to answer in the best and most confident manner. We share some tips to help you negotiate salary at an interview and help you get the money you are worth for the position.
As part of your research and preparation for an interview, take a look at other companies and the salary ranges for the position you are applying for taking into account experience. Having a salary range in your mind which will help you discuss in confidence, when the inevitable question pops up.
Related: 3 Common Regrets Following Salary Negotiations
What is the lowest you would accept?
Keep in the back of your mind the lowest salary you would accept, to support you and your family.
You shouldn’t accept anything below what you need otherwise you won’t be very happy at work or home, and may end up having to find a second income from somewhere. Your performance won’t be very satisfactory either. Therefore try to negotiate the right salary if you are offered the position.
Promote yourself
Make a note of your skills, experience and items of achievement in order to give reasons as to why you are worth the salary you are hoping for.
When is the best time to discuss salary?
If you decide to discuss your salary requirements before you have been offered the job, be careful as you could stop yourself from getting the job before they have convinced themselves you are the right person for the job. If you are not comfortable to discuss salary tell your potential employer you would like to learn more about the job before discussing salary requirements.
Related: How to Ask a Pay Raise
Wait until the employer talk about it first!
The best piece of advice is to not to bring up salary first and wait for the employer to bring it up in the interview. If it is not bought up don’t push for the subject to be mentioned. There is plenty of time to discuss salary.
Do not mention previous salaries
Once you disclose what your past salary is, you have limited chance to negotiate. If you do not discuss your past salary, the potential employer do not know what the lowest salary is you would be willing to accept.
Discussion of salary is in a friendly manner
When discussing salary, you want the potential employer think you are working with them to satisfy both needs and you are working together to find a suitable package. An amicable and friendly approach is recommended.
Remember don’t say yes to an offer straight away. As much as it best to be enthusiastic, give the employer 24 hours in which to respond so you can think about the package and be sure it is the right package and have the option to express any concerns you may have.
It is very important to get your job and salary offer in writing otherwise a verbal offer might not be followed through resulting in misunderstandings or complete disappointment for you.
It’s ok to say no to an offer of employment, this is very normal as long as you do it in the right way. Be polite and start with saying “Thank you for your offer…” and then explain why you can’t accept the offer. It may be that the employer can find a way around your concerns, for example offering a higher salary, so that you get the job you want with acceptable conditions.
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