The top 10 salary negotiation mistakes

August 17, 2012 by easwari22 4 Comments

The top 10 salary negotiation mistakes

Avoiding the salary question landmines from employers is often a tricky part of every interview process. It is also an aspect that tends to give job seekers sleepless nights. But if you are aware of the mistakes that you are most likely to make, then you could always dodge the question effectively and turn the job in your favor. Here are top ten salary negotiations mistakes that job seekers generally tend to make.

• Never settle for a salary which is not financially enough for you. This is where you fail to recognize your potential, thus accepting an offer which will add to your disadvantages.
• It is never a good idea to divulge your salary expectations at the start of the interview. Review the job responsibilities, the working hours and other aspects. It is also wise if you can dodge the salary expectation question.
• During salary negotiation, the spotlight should be on your values and not your needs. Ask yourself what value you hold to the company. You will get an answer soon.
• Rejecting the offer soon – Never do the mistake of rejecting the job offer where you are offered a lower salary. This is where the entire act of negotiation comes into play. Ask for time and look at the pros and cons. If it is a prospective company loaded with incentives, then it would be foolish to reject the offer.
• Handling the negotiations yourself – Never include anyone else in the negotiation process with your employer. Play it professionally and with politeness.
• Inadequate research – There are a lot of websites today that offer advice on salary negotiation and the correct amount of pay for each position. Always do proper research prior to the interview.
• Accepting the job quickly – Just like rejecting the offer soon, accepting the job without proper thinking could land you in serious troubles. Take your time and think it out.
• Focus on the counteroffer – When you make the counteroffer in case of salary unhappiness, choose the battle areas wisely such as relocation expenses and incentive packages.
• In writing – Always make sure that you ask for the complete job profile and the job offer in writing. This is to ensure that you are never cheated at any point of time.
• Take the pleasure in waiting – Instead of pitching the salary right at the beginning, wait and then take the appropriate time to make the pitch. If you are the last candidate standing, then it couldn’t be a better time.

Bowing low to salary questions and negotiation warfare does not fit your profile. So stick to the above factors and ensure that you get what you deserve.