Job interview: what are the proper ways to discuss salary?


Passing an interview for the job is a nerve-wracking and time-consuming process, but when it comes to discussing a salary, the whole thing becomes even more intense and complex. How should I ask about it? What is the best wording? What benefits can I have? How much will I get after probation term? These questions are coming to the mind of every job seeker, baffle one, and distract. That is why we`ve gathered the most relevant tips for you to do your best.
1) Make decent research
The first thing you are to do once you`ve received that call from a recruiter is to find information about the position you`ve been offered. Monitor the Internet and understand key responsibilities, required a set of skills and expectations for the vacancy. Afterwards, find out data about the company and its culture. Digest all the information and if everything fits in your life, pass to the next step.
2) Conduct great resume
No job search comes without an outstanding resume/CV, so make certain to have a good outline of your skills and experiences. Note down your achievements, relevant courses and successful projects you took part in.
  • salary expectations
You`ll need to do salary research just to be aware of the current value of the work you want to do in the market. Browse the web, ask a person who works in the similar position, visit salary information websites and make sure that the price you desire to possess corresponds to the actual cost.
  • salary history
Check professional resume examples in order to see if your outline is relevant to the job. In most of the cases, salary is not mentioned in the resume, but this info can be requested by the HR manager. So what you should do up there is to be flexible, general and benefits-oriented.
3) Choose the right time
There is no such thing as the best moment for discussing your salary, as everything depends on the situation. The first marker of «time X» is when you understand all the responsibilities of a particular position. Moreover, if you feel that the atmosphere during the interview is pleasant and you`ve found a common language with the interviewer; you can bring up the issue of the payment when your interlocutor mentions the topic. On the other hand, if you face the «cold» interviewer asking about the salary can just annoy the speaker.
4) Ask a question
The main issue for every person yearning to get a job is: «Should you ask about salary in the first interview?» The answer lies in the company`s policy. If the firm definitely has more than one stage of the interview, you better show what you`re capable of and then bid up. On the other side, if interview process is simple, you can ask indirect questions about payment (however, it`s better to leave this burden to the interviewer).
5) Point out your value
Know what you`re worth and prepare some evidence why you should be paid this amount of money. You should be armed with all your set of skills and position yourself as the best choice for the company. Be ready to defend your desired value and negotiate it. For instance, if the employer doesn’t agree with your demanded salary, but you feel that it`s the right place of work for you, you can negotiate this money issue with establishing a special system of bonuses.
6) Shorter your expectations
Now that you know the average salary for the job you should determine the price, which is acceptable for you. This amount should be similar to the cost you should be given taking into account your professionality, experience, and specialization.
7) Discuss benefits and extras
If the interviewer is not ready to offer you the salary, which you want, you can accurately suggest discussing perks. For example, suggest completing Personal Development Plan, where you`ll list the targets you are to achieve. These goals will match a definite rise in payment. At the same time, if you are offered the exact salary you asked for, there is no harm in clearing out your future perspectives as an expert in a particular field, which keep abreast with the salary increase.
8) Pass to negotiation
Finally, you can proceed to salary negotiation. Be careful and always mind the mood of the interviewer, changing the pace of conversation if needed. Ask delicately, be polite and thoughtful.
9) Ask for offer in writing
It`s not an issue for a legitimate employer to provide one with a job offer in writing, as it`s a documented result of the whole interview procedure and ensures the credibility of a firm as well as your safety from frauds.
Once you`ve followed all these steps, it’s open-and-shut! Wish you a successful interview and desirable salary!