WHEN TO ASK ABOUT SALARY?

    Salary questions are usually inappropriate in the first interview, but you should research the salary range for the job. Consider how much the job is worth to you, and recognize that the pay raise structure of the organization is just as important as the entry-level rate in assessing the offer.

• When discussing salary, always state that you are "hoping" for more, instead of "expecting" more.

5 Secrets to salary negotiation:

1. Remember the employer will rarely tell you the most they are willing to pay.
2. NEVER discuss salary until the end of the interviewing process.
3. Try never to be the first to mention a salary figure. Whoever mentions a salary figure first, generally loses salary negotiation.
4. Before you go to the interview, do the homework on how much you need.
5. Before you go to the interview, do research on salaries for your field and for the organization.  Talking to people with the same job at other organizations is your best bet.

    In the end, do not let salary be your only guide.  You are better off making $15,000 a year and being happy than making $50,000 a year and being miserable.  The money will take care of itself over time when you are doing the work that you love!

Links You Might Find Helpful:

• International Salary Calculator - this web site provides a cost of living calculator which will allow you to compare the actual cost of living in over 100 different cities throughout the U.S., giving you a better understanding of the true value of your offer.
• Successful Job Offer Negotiation

How To Respond To Job Offers

Last Updated:  12/12/98

Created by CSU, Chico Web Masters