How to negotiate a job offer

After spending weeks or months trudging through job postings, remote interviews, phone calls, and reference requests, individuals may be eager to sign on the dotted line and get to work. Though it’s easy to let that excitement take over, professionals must carefully study a job offer to ensure it’s in their best interests. It’s not uncommon for professionals to worry that careful consideration of a job offer can make them appear greedy or unappreciative. However, any firm worth working for will allow candidates ample time to consider an offer and even negotiate terms if the need arises. In such instances, professionals can consider these negotiation tips.

Work with a recruiter. A recruiter can be your best advocate. These individuals can help professionals negotiate a fair offer and benefits in line with market compensation levels and current trends. Employers take recruiters seriously, and recruiters will have no qualms about negotiating because they are third parties in these conversations and can serve as the proverbial “bad guys” if need be.

Think about what you want most. Negotiation terms should reflect what matters most to you, which may differ from person to person. Salary is not the only negotiable. Perhaps a certain amount of vacation time is important because you routinely travel to visit with family? Maybe you need an alternative start time to accommodate childcare needs? Or you may want to solidify retirement savings and can negotiate for a larger match to your 401(k) plan? Focus on one or two negotiation points to get the best employment terms.

Verbally negotiate with the hiring rep. It’s important to negotiate before a written offer is presented. This is when you have the most leverage. Once an offer is put on paper, managers may be more reluctant to change terms. Take a day to mull over the offer and make a list of wants; then ask for a call with the recruiter. You never know what you can get if you don’t ask.

Expect some give and take. An employer likely will not give in to all of your demands unless they are desperate to fill the role. Negotiations often are marked by trading one thing for another. For example, an uptick in personal time off may come at the compromise of having to work longer hours each day. While you may not be able to get a big salary increase, the employer may be able to offer you a better title, which can translate into more upward growth in the industry when you move on to another job. Again, if money is an issue, an employer may be willing to make up for a certain salary by offering stock options, expense account allowances or other perks.

Photo by Shutterstock Job seekers shouldn’t be afraid to negotiate offers with prospective employers.