QUICK TIPS:

Competing offers put you in the best position to negotiate. If no competing offer, focus on your unique qualities/qualifications and market and/or cost of living data.

Start AND end each negotiation with appreciation and interest: “I’m very excited about the possibility of working with your organization, and I appreciate the offer.  I had just a few questions about the compensation.“

Not sure how to start? Use broad, open-ended questions: “Is there any flexibility with the compensation package?,” or “Can you share more information about how my base salary offer was determined?”

• Use questions to determine which elements of the compensation package have flexibility, and negotiate in those areas that are important to you. Remember that base salary has a more long term impact than sign on bonus.
• Benchmark data for realistic requests for increases, and make asks that are within a reasonable range
• Always operate in good faith, and communicate with the recruiter directly and professionally.
• They have made the offer, and they want you to accept! Recruiters can be a good advocate for you in the process.
• Do not accept a job until you are ready, and ask for a decision deadline if needed.
• Keep the employer informed of other offers.
  Once you’ve accepted an offer, be sure to discontinue job searching and withdraw from the application/interview process with other organizations.

For detailed resources, best practices, and sample scripts, check out our slides on salary negotiation!