Salary negotiation is one of the trickiest parts of being a jobseeker. Ask for too much and you may not get an offer; too little and you end up with less than you deserve. Whether you’re new to job hunting or a seasoned pro, knowing how to negotiate your pay rate is the key to obtaining the job you want. Set yourself up for success by reviewing these five tips for what not to do when it comes to salary negotiation.
Talking money during the interview
First things first: never be the one to bring up compensation during the interview. Asking about salary from the get-go will make you look unprofessional and suggest that you are motivated by money instead of the position. Additionally, discussing salary during the interview leaves you with less time to focus on selling yourself as the best candidate for the job.
Failing to do your research
Before your first interview, spend time looking at the going pay rate in Hawaii for someone with your experience. Websites like Glassdoor are a good starting point. Consider the skills that you bring to the position and your success in your most recent position. Use all this information to calculate your starting salary requirements for the position and have this ready in case the hiring manager brings it up.
Giving away your number
Although you’ll have a salary requirement in mind, to negotiate the best possible pay, have the hiring manager present a number first. If the interviewer asks what salary rate you’re hoping for, do your best to delay the conversation by focusing on your fit. As an example, try saying, “I’m negotiable depending on the range you’re offering. My first priority is finding a position that’s a good fit for my skills and interests.
Immediately accepting the first offer
If the hiring manager presents an offer that is below your salary requirement, it’s okay to come in with a counteroffer. Take some time to make sure you have strong facts to support your case for more money. Highlight the value that you bring to the company and show clear evidence of what someone with your background should earn and why.
Negotiating your salary is no easy task but by avoiding these five mistakes you’ll be better equipped to walk away with a competitive job offer and a position you’re excited about.
Read also: How to Get the Raise You Deserve
Find a job
If you’re not happy with your job or career path, ALTRES Staffing may be able to help. We understand the local job market and match qualified candidates with Hawaii’s leading companies every day. We offer jobs you won’t find anywhere else, and one interview will give you access to hundreds of jobs. Best of all, our services are FREE for jobseekers. You can search our current positions, or just reach out if you need guidance. We are happy to help!
Sign up for our newsletter
Sign up for our monthly HIVE newsletter and get tips for finding a job, managing a business and advancing your career right in your inbox.
Salary negotiation is one of the trickiest parts of being a jobseeker. Ask for too much and you may not get an offer; too little and you end up with less than you deserve. Whether you’re new to job hunting or a seasoned pro, knowing how to negotiate your pay rate is the key to obtaining the job you want. Set yourself up for success by reviewing these five tips for what not to do when it comes to salary negotiation.
Talking money during the interview
First things first: never be the one to bring up compensation during the interview. Asking about salary from the get-go will make you look unprofessional and suggest that you are motivated by money instead of the position. Additionally, discussing salary during the interview leaves you with less time to focus on selling yourself as the best candidate for the job.
Failing to do your research
Before your first interview, spend time looking at the going pay rate in Hawaii for someone with your experience. Websites like Glassdoor are a good starting point. Consider the skills that you bring to the position and your success in your most recent position. Use all this information to calculate your starting salary requirements for the position and have this ready in case the hiring manager brings it up.
Giving away your number
Although you’ll have a salary requirement in mind, to negotiate the best possible pay, have the hiring manager present a number first. If the interviewer asks what salary rate you’re hoping for, do your best to delay the conversation by focusing on your fit. As an example, try saying, “I’m negotiable depending on the range you’re offering. My first priority is finding a position that’s a good fit for my skills and interests.
Immediately accepting the first offer
If the hiring manager presents an offer that is below your salary requirement, it’s okay to come in with a counteroffer. Take some time to make sure you have strong facts to support your case for more money. Highlight the value that you bring to the company and show clear evidence of what someone with your background should earn and why.
Negotiating your salary is no easy task but by avoiding these five mistakes you’ll be better equipped to walk away with a competitive job offer and a position you’re excited about.
Read also: How to Get the Raise You Deserve
Find a job
If you’re not happy with your job or career path, ALTRES Staffing may be able to help. We understand the local job market and match qualified candidates with Hawaii’s leading companies every day. We offer jobs you won’t find anywhere else, and one interview will give you access to hundreds of jobs. Best of all, our services are FREE for jobseekers. You can search our current positions, or just reach out if you need guidance. We are happy to help!
Sign up for our newsletter
Sign up for our monthly HIVE newsletter and get tips for finding a job, managing a business and advancing your career right in your inbox.