Q: How can I negotiate a better salary?

A: Congratulations. A new job has been offered to you. Perhaps you want to negotiate for a higher salary. Here are some steps to follow:

First of all, make sure that you really want the job. If you do, you can say to the employer, "I really want this job, I like the job, the company, the people I'd be working with - there's only one thing that's making me hesitate to say yes, and that's the salary. If you could offer me, let's say five thousand dollars more, I'd say yes right now."

Secondly, make sure you understand an employers basis for agreeing to added compensation. It's not about family needs or things you want to buy - the basis is your value to the company. I recommend that negotiations of this kind are conducted face to face. It's much easier for an employer to say yes under those circumstances.

Q: Who should bring up salary?

A: It is in your best interest to have the employer bring up a salary figure or range first, and then discuss it in person, or at least over the phone.

Q: What other benefits should I ask for?

A: Salary is not the only important component of an overall compensation package. There are many other benefits that you should consider including medical, eye-care and dental coverage, vacation, car allowances, profit sharing programs, 401k matching and stock option plans and many more. It is always a good idea to ask about the company's benefits program.

Q: When should a salary discussion start?

A: Salary negotiation should only begin after you have demonstrated how your skills, education, experience, accomplishments qualify you as the best candidate for the position.

Q: What is the salary range for my career?

A: There are many resources that enable you to identify what your salary range should be.

Q: Aren't employers really in the driver's seat when it comes to the job market?

A: Actually nobody's in the driver's seat when it comes to the job market. It's true that you need a good job, it's also true that the employer needs good employees. They have a need and you have a need. Nobody is in the driver's seat.