How to Negotiate Salary Expectations with Your Hiring Manager

Salary Expectations

Salary is one subject many job searchers tend to avoid due to how sensitive a topic it is. After all, the last thing you want is to blow the interview all because you couldn’t wait to ask the hiring manager how much you can expect to be paid for the position.

Your negotiating power will largely depend on two things: timing and your value.

Timing is everything, as you want to wait for the perfect moment to talk about salary. And even then you should wait for the hiring manager to bring it up first. Your value is also important because it’s the only way to justify the pay range you’re expecting to receive.

Below are a few pointers on taking the pain out of the salary negotiation process.

  1. Do Your Research

Before you negotiate salary expectations, it’s important to do your homework over the kind of salary figure someone in the role you’re applying for can expect to receive. Remember to factor in experience, which will affect your pay range.

You should also consider the company’s circumstances. For example, if it’s a startup, you might not be able to negotiate a higher pay range due to budget constraints. In this case, you may be able to work out a deal for a lower salary, but shares in the company.

  1. Come with Realistic Expectations

The point of doing your homework is to have realistic expectations when negotiating your salary range.  The process becomes easier for you and the employer when you can agree on a similar range beforehand. Once that’s done, you can then focus on highlighting your unique selling proposition, or the value you bring to the company and why you’re worth every penny you’re asking for.

  1. Wait for the Right Moment

Your hiring manager will be most receptive to a salary negotiation after you’ve established the value you offer to the company. And that usually happens after one or two interviews. And even then, you should wait until the company has fallen in love with you, rearing to bring you into the team. Of course, it’ also important to ask yourself if you actually want to work for the company, otherwise you’re just waiting your time negotiating an expected salary range only to back out from any potential offer.

When making a salary request, be polite, but be confident. Once you’ve made your case, wait for the interviewer to mull things over.

For more job search tips like the ones found in this guide, don’t hesitate to reach out to the staffing services team of Star Staffing! Let us help you find the right employer through our network of companies and hiring managers. Visit our contact page to get in touch with one of our job search agents.

 

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