Negotiating the Job Offer
You've met with a potential employer not once, but most likely 2 or 3 times. The stage is set for a job offer and negotiations.
The negotiating phase can be initiated by either the interviewer or you, the interviewee. Questions or comments an employer might ask include:
- How do you think you would like working here?
- People with your background always fit in well with us.
- You could make a real contribution here. What do you think?
- Well, you certainly seem to have what it takes. What questions are lingering in your mind?
Your questions might be similarly phrased:
- How do you think I would fit in with the group?
- I feel my background and experience would definitely complement the work group, don't you?
- I think I could make a real contribution here. Do you agree?
- I have what it takes to do this job. What questions are lingering in your mind?
Once you've received an offer:
- Evaluate it. Remember, you've done your homework and have a good idea about salary and compensation packages. Determine if the offer is fair and equitable. You can respond with, "It seems we are close. I was hoping for something more in the range of $___ to $___. How much room do we have for negotiation?"
- Not quite what you expected? Accept or reject? "I like the job and I know I have what it takes to be successful in it. But quite honestly I cannot justify it with your initial salary offer. I hope we have some room for negotiation."
- You might be asked, "What is your minimum?" Respond with your range again and talk about how something can be done. "Even though the offer isn't quite what I hoped for, can we talk about the future?" Some factors may include:
|