Saturday, August 7, 2010

Get your Dream Salary

You've cleared two rounds of interview and you are sure you've cracked the third one too. The only thing that separates you from your dream job is the "money talk". While you keep your fingers crossed, you are wondering how to broach the subject.

Should you take whatever they offer or should you have a certain expectation? Will mentioning a figure be better than just a percentage? Should you compromise a little or not budge at all?

If you've got all these questions running through your mind, we've got just the thing you need. Here's your guide to negotiating your dream salary.

Judge right 

Waiting for the right time is crucial. Observe the body language of your interviewer to judge when you should start and stop negotiating. If the interview is not going well, it's probably not a good idea to haggle too much.

Usually the topic is broached by the interviewer. However, if he or she does not, you can bring up the issue at the end of the interview. Do not omit the topic completely. That will show disinterest on your part.

Talk smart

How to bring up the subject would also depend on how you fared in the interview. If the employer doesn't bring it up, you can ask him what pay package they intend to offer you. Be persuasive and use the right tone. You should also have alternative figures ready.

Do your homework

Make sure you are clear about how much you are expecting. Prepare yourself for what you are going to say. Keep your reasons for the amount you are quoting ready. Even if the reasons are personal, such as a student loan, talk about them.

Calculate your expenses and the savings you want to make, and arrive at a minimum figure. Always ask for more than this so that you leave enough room for negotiation.

Be realistic

Take into consideration the industry scenario and the company you are applying to when you arrive at this figure.

The only way you can improve your ability to negotiate is with practice and experience. Remember the lessons you learn each time you change jobs and use them in your next interview.