You're negotiating a salary. What's the most important thing to avoid?

Don’t reveal your current salary. But also don’t share your desired salary unless asked. In some states it’s illegal to ask for current salary. However, if asked and you decide to share your desired salary do your research first to determine what the role pays in your market. Review what 25% percentile of people make in the role, what does 50% percentile of people make in the role and what criteria is required for some in the 75 % percentile range of the market. Be very careful how you share this information. You don’t want to put yourself in a box that will limit your income potential or find yourself in a negotiation situation that will be more tasking than it should be.

Avoid asking for a compensation figure without attaching that number to the impact/value that you will bring to the table. Salary negotiation shouldn't feel random. To give yourself the best chance of landing the compensation you want, it should be tied to specific reasons. Reiterate the areas that you will most help the business grow or develop. Companies are looking for great ROI (return on investment) from their hires. Recap some of the pain points or objectives that were discussed throughout the interview. Show, with examples, how your experience will help the company thrive in those areas. Use this as your main leverage for requesting a certain compensation that you want.

Keep a range in mind, stick to your range. Don't reveal the lowest salary that you will accept during negotiation, and don't beg for the highest salary in your range, but show them why you deserve it.

When negotiating your salary, the most important thing to avoid is providing a number first. By giving away your desired salary range upfront, you lose significant leverage in the negotiation. Do your research to determine a reasonable salary range for that position based on your experience and qualifications. When asked about your salary expectations, reframe the question: "I'm more interested in finding a role that is a great fit for my skills and experience. What salary range do you have budgeted for this position?" If pressed, provide a wide range based on your research. By avoiding naming a specific figure, you put the ball back in the employer's court. You can work from there to negotiate a good salary. #resumewriter #LinkedIn

When negotiating a salary, the most important thing to avoid is disclosing your current or previous salary. This information can potentially limit your ability to negotiate a higher salary based on your skills, experience, and the market value of the position. Instead, focus on highlighting your qualifications, achievements, and the value you bring to the role to negotiate a fair and competitive salary that reflects your worth.

When negotiating a salary, one of the most important things to avoid is revealing your salary expectations or requirements too early in the process. This can potentially limit your negotiating power, as the employer may anchor their offer to your stated figure rather than what they might have been willing to offer otherwise. It's often better to let the employer make the first move in terms of salary discussion, allowing you to gauge their valuation of the position and negotiate from there.

Never accept an offer on the spot or one that isn't in writing. When you get the written offer, be grateful. Tell the hiring manager that you're honored to have received an offer, and that you'll need 24 to 48 hours to review the offer. If they ask what you need to review, reply that you prefer to discuss large decisions with your family (It doesn't matter if you're single, childless, etc, and legally, a company can't ask you about your marital or family status). Do not be bullied into accepting on the spot--any company that does this isn't a company you want to work for. Receiving an offer is exciting, and you'll likely experience some adrenaline. Taking a day or two to consider allows you to look at the offer with a clear head.

Negotiating a salary entails striving for a mutually beneficial outcome where both you and the employer feel satisfied. This involves adopting a respectful, collaborative, and creative approach. Respect the employer's constraints and interests, steering clear of ultimatums. Collaborate to uncover common ground and shared advantages, avoiding a confrontational stance. Flexibility and creativity are key; explore various elements of the compensation package like bonuses or benefits to enhance the deal's value. Building trust and rapport through this process can lead to securing a salary reflective of your value and potential.

Negotiating a salary is an art form that requires necessary preparation. Before entering any negotiation, do your homework to understand your value in the marketplace and gather relevant comps from headhunters/recruiters. Negotiate with the decision maker, not the messenger. Always aim to have the other party disclose the number first, allowing you to gauge their position. Also it is important to remember, compensation is not just about salary; explore other avenues such as signing bonuses, PTO, and professional development opportunities (e.g., memberships fees, tuition reimbursement, etc.). Negotiation is about finding common ground while understanding the wiggle room – you will never know what is possible unless you ask.

Don't forget the multitude of other things that you can negotiate. Salary is the most valuable asset , and has the greatest influence on future earnings, but don't ignore things like moving expenses, insurance, and other negotiables.