Mistakes When Negotiating Salary
Negotiating your salary can be a daunting task. And, remember you are here to get what is best for you. Walk the tough line here and they will respect you for trying to get what you want. Give in at the first sign of opposition and they might come away thinking you have no spine. Approach the negotiation as you would a negotiation on the company's behalf and they might just be impressed with your skills. Here are some of the things you should avoid when trying to negotiate what is the best salary for you.
1) Don't get emotional once the negotiations begin. Approach this as a business meeting and be professional.
2) Don't show up unprepared. You should have researched the salary ranges of the comparable jobs in your city, state and zip code. If possible you should have the salary ranges for the company. Use the internet and back up your desired salary with articles, salary guidelines. Bring documentation in case they want to go over it or study it later.
3) Don't forget to sell yourself. This is a negotiation so you are going to need some ammunition. What types of qualities or qualifications do you bring to the table. What projects have you excelled at in the past. Never shy away from marketing yourself, now is the time to do it.
4)Don't forget to ask questions. Make sure they feel engaged by asking them questions. Questions about your performance are great because it forces them to answer about your strong points.
6) Don't give an ultimatum. Forcing them to make a decision right then and there or giving them an ultimatum is a bad idea. They will need time just like everyone else to think things over.
7) Don't bring personal issues into it. They don't need to hear that you need a raise because of your personal problems. Leave the problems at home and act professional.
8) Don't make it all about the money. Make sure they know that along with more money, you also strive to have more responsibility. Maybe when they think about this before deciding they will give you more responsibility as well, which is a good thing.
Keep your salary negotiations professional, calm and relaxed. If you do your homework and show up prepared you will have an added edge in the negotiation process. Good luck!
