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Get the price that you are worth
The discussion regarding salary is one of the most uncomfortable, and also the most unavoidable, questions that job seekers are asked during interviews. The best advice regarding dealing with this question relates to research and preparation. It is essential to research the salary range for the position so that during the interview you are better prepared to discuss the figure with the recruiter, and so obtain a better price for yourself. Highlight your skills, prior qualifications, accomplishments and experience to justify any figures that you may quote.
The safest approach, however, is to remain silent on the issue until your potential employer brings up the issue himself or herself, otherwise you risk pricing yourself out of the market before you manage to convince the employer that they need you. If you are pressed, try to ask questions which throw back the question to the employer, for instance: “What is a typical salary for this position?” This approach forces the issue on the employer and helps you to regain your negotiating power. But remember that salary is not the only component of your compensation plan. Sometimes the gross pay figure may not seem satisfactory, but the company may be offering you excellent benefits and perks which may be more attractive than the base pay itself. Make the discussion regarding salary as friendly as possible, so that the employer will be more inclined to review the package if you find it inadequate or insufficient. Keep in mind that employers do not necessarily accept the candidate quoting the lowest expected salary figure. They tend to believe that candidates who are already earning a greater income do so because they possess prized qualities such as initiative, experience or ability. If you still decide that the offered salary and compensation are insufficient, decline the offer politely and graciously. This leaves a favorable impression on the recruiter, so that they will keep you in mind next time a position matching your qualifications turns up in the future.
