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FOUND THE PERFECT JOB — NOW WHAT?
It is never too early to start researching a company, position, industry and geographic region to have an expected salary
range. Research is going to be critical in successfully negotiating your job offer down the road. It is not enough to simply tell
an employer you deserve more money or an additional benefit
-
you need to have information and data to support how you
meet the minimum and preferred qualifications. Research is often easier said than done, but there are numerous resources
available online.
STEP 1
Be enthusiastic about
the opportunity, even
if you are not initially
thrilled with the offer
itself.
The first step after
receiving the official
offer letter is to
review it. Does it
have everything in it
that you previously
discussed with the
employer? How does
the offer compare to
the research you’ve
done?
STEP 2
While you have the
person on the phone
[or via email], ask
questions:
a. About benefits
packages (health,
dental, etc.)
b. Paid time off
c. Relocation
assistance
d. Signing bonus
e. Stock options
f. Performance
reviews
g. Advancement
opportunities
h. Additional clauses
(non-disclosure,
non-compete)
STEP 3
Ask for the official
offer to be emailed
to you.
Just because you
have received
an official offer
does not mean
the negotiation is
finished. You now
have, in writing,
the specific details
and probably more
information than
you had, even
after your initial
conversation.
STEP 4
Ask for a deadline
to respond to their
offer.
Compare the offer to
your salary and
benefits research.
How does it
compare?
Make notes as this
will help you in the
next step -
negotiation.