Features - Careers Advice
How to negotiate a better salary - A CV Centre Guide
Salary negotiations are often an important part of applying for a new job, and can be one of the most difficult stages to handle. However, if you make sure that you are fully prepared to deal with the matter, you should be able to ensure that the negotiations are concluded to your satisfaction.
Negotiating for a new job
Generally, the interviewer should be the one to bring up the issue of salary and, although they should dictate when the question is asked, you should make sure you have a full understanding of what the job entails before reaching an agreement. Indeed, it is often advisable to avoid salary negotiations altogether until a formal job offer has been received. Make sure that the interviewer is fully aware of your particular skills and experiences and that you detail exactly how you intend to add value to the role. Once the interviewer has made their offer, find out what else is included in the package. Bonus payments, share options, staff discounts and training opportunities can make a relatively low basic salary seem much more attractive.
Considering the offer
Make sure that you give a salary offer due consideration before deciding whether to accept or decline it. If you believe that the salary offer is too low, let the interviewer know that this is the reason why you want to take some time to think about it. They will often give you an indication as to whether or not there is any degree of flexibility in their offer. If you do decide to accept the offer, make sure that the full details are subsequently confirmed in writing. If, however, you choose to reject an offer, try to do this in a professional and amicable manner. Just because this particular offer was not acceptable, this does not necessarily mean that you may not consider employment with them in the future.
Negotiating within your current job
Sometimes, you may feel that your current job should command a higher salary and that the time is right for you to negotiate a pay rise. If so, similar basic rules apply as in the previously discussed interview scenario, including researching the market to get a realistic idea of the salary you should expect and also ensuring once again that your employer realises the value you are bringing to the role.
When you decide to broach the subject of a salary increase, schedule an official appointment rather than just casually slipping it into the conversation. In the meeting, concentrate on why you think your performance warrants a pay increase, instead of simply comparing your salary with the salary of your colleagues.
Of course, be careful not to react badly if your request is refused for the time being. Make sure you continue to perform well and perhaps even ask for advice as to how you might secure a pay rise at the next salary review.
The CV Centre
A CV is often all a prospective employer has to judge you on, so creating the right first impression is vital. Whatever job you've set your sights on, with our market-leading position in this field we are confident that our assistance will maximise your chances of winning it. There really is no substitute for taking advantage of in-depth professional experience. Find out how The CV Centre can help you.
The CV Centre - www.ineedacv.co.uk
