Negotiating a job offer can feel stressful and like a risk, but it can be a crucial step in getting the best possible terms for your career and happiness. It could be a salary change, benefits or even a breakdown of what the role entails so approaching the process with preparation and confidence is key to successfully communicating your wants and needs. We will discuss some key points whether you are in the midst of a negotiation or are exploring whether to proceed with one.
- Be clear and communicate along the whole process, but especially in the beginning stages
- Having salary conversations early and often are important when job searching. Not only to save your own time and effort, but also to not waste the employer’s time. During a first discovery conversation, be transparent about what you are looking for in salary and additional benefits so there is no surprise when getting to the offer stage.
- Do research before going into negotiate, become an expert in your field in market
- Before even thinking about negotiations, it’s crucial to figure out what the current job market is like in your field. This includes researching average salaries, levels of experience, industry standards, location, size of companies, standard benefit packages and more. Your recruiter is a great resource during this phase, but you could also do your own research on various websites that share the data you are looking for.
- Assess the whole offer, not just the salary
- Salary of course is important but other things matter depending on each person. Sometimes employers look at their benefits and work that into the compensation structure, such as contributing to your health insurance, matching your 401k contribution or even profit sharing and stock options. Discussing this with HR, Recruiter or others that are knowledgeable in the area can help paint a whole picture of what the offer truly entails.
- Be realistic with what you cannot give up and what you can be flexible on
- This goes back into the first point of clear communication from the beginning. If you are having truthful conversations from the beginning, explaining what you need, it will come no surprise if you come back and negotiate to meet said needs. At the end of the day, it ultimately comes down to you if you want to proceed with the offer and you know deep down what you need and what makes sense to you. A good employer will respect whatever decision you do end up making.
- Be prepared for the conversation and after the fact
- Before going into any negotiation, preparation is important to show your research into the topic. Be aware that not all negotiations end in one’s favor due to things like company budget, role expectations or just some employers, not like negotiations brought to the table. Regardless, when moving forward in a negotiation, do your research, and be ready for discussing in a respectful and collaborative manner. You could frame your questions in a confident manner where its shows benefit to both parties and explains the why into what you are asking. In addition, you need to prepare yourself for various responses including accepting, countering or refusing.
In conclusion, negotiating an offer can be scary and stressful, but preparation and research can ease your worries and set you up for a successful conversation. Be confident in advocating for yourself with your future and the right job with align with your values and needs!
Bridge Personnel specializes in a range of roles in the Financial Services, Contact Center, and Non-Clinical Healthcare Industries. Contact us today.