How to negotiate salary

Teach: How to negotiate salary

What to say

When a job offer comes in, thank them, ask for a day or two to review it in writing, and research the pay range for that role and area. Then ask for a specific number near the top of the range with two or three reasons tied to the job. If salary will not move, ask about a signing bonus, start date, schedule or training instead.

What to show, in order

1. Thank them warmly and ask for the full offer in writing and a day or two to consider it.
2. Research the pay range for the role, level and city from posted salaries and people in the field.
3. Pick a specific number near the top of the range that you can justify.
4. Call or email with your counter: I am excited about the role; based on my experience with forklift certification and scheduling, I would like the base set at this amount.
5. Stop talking after you give the number and let them respond.
6. If base pay cannot move, ask about a signing bonus, an earlier review, more time off, a better shift or paid training.
7. Get the final agreed terms in writing before you resign from your current job.

When to stop and call a professional

• The contract has a non-compete, repayment clause or other terms you do not understand: ask an employment lawyer to review it before signing.
• You think you were treated unfairly, not paid what you are owed, or let go illegally: contact your state labor department or an employment lawyer, since deadlines can be short.

The check question

Ask: What should you say when the offer first arrives? Answer: Thank you, and ask for it in writing and a day or two to review

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.