How confident are that you know how to maneuver salary negotiations in an interview? You may have no idea how to negotiate a salary in an interview. Or maybe you’ve mastered how to secure the bag by simply asking for what you want. Either way, we decided to get an expert’s advice on how to properly negotiate a salary in an interview by talking to a human resources analyst who has worked in HR for five years.
Should you discuss salary negations when you’re on an interview?
Salary negotiations should never be discussed during an interview. The interview is a time to speak about skills, credentials, and what you would bring to the position. The focus of the interview is not centered on what you feel you should make.
You don’t feel that candidates should at least mention salary to determine if the salary is worth their time?
Candidates should have a range in mind before the interview. There are only two windows to discuss salary: before the interview and after. If you were in the middle of an interview and the salary didn't meet your requirements, you wouldn't get up and leave in the middle of the interview.
How would a new hire go about negotiating her/his salary now that they passed the interview ad secured the job?
Well, it can come in two forms: the employer will ask or the new hire. The employer will extend the offer, discuss the salary, and ask for the salary requirements. At this point, the employer will be looking to get that information from the candidate now that an offer is on the table.
The second option is the candidate states their current salary expectations based on previous work history while expressing their flexibility. It’s important to express why you want to make a certain salary by highlighting your experiences and how you’ll contribute to the company.
It’s very common for new hires to worry that their salary requirements are too low or too high. What steps should a new hire take to find the perfect middle ground?
You have to be confident in putting that figure out there. You should always be able to assess yourself and how you compare to the position based on the job description. When you read a job posting you know whether it’s an entry, mid, or senior-level position. If you feel you’re going to lowball yourself you should first establish an approach to make sure that doesn’t happen.
What would be the approach?
Approach #1: Do your research. Find out the average salary for the position you’re interviewing for, that's first. Look at the market and use online resources like Indeed & Glassdoor because it’s all public information.
Approach #2: Know yourself. Ask yourself what you need to be comfortable and consider the cost of living in your area.
Approach #3: Be strategic. Make sure that you're within reason based on your salary research.
Approach #4: Throw the number out there. Don’t be afraid to ask the company. If you made past the interviews, you know they want you
I don’t know about you but its good to hear that you can be in control of salary negotiations. It’s a tricky subject but you got to find the sweet spot in settling on a salary that makes you happy. Go secure that bag!