Many people aren’t at ease with the process of negotiating salary, but that may cost you thousands of dollars. He says the majority of job seekers end up doing the same thing that elicits the better offers from executive recruiters. The good news? Do not be pushy or threatening to be successful. In many cases, a mere mindset adjustment and a bit of preparation can make a big difference in terms of income.
Never Enter a Negotiation Without a Plan
Preparation is more important than discussion, according to Barnyak. Candidates must consider their response and back-up options, and realistic targets before negotiations to avoid emotional and panicked decision-making during negotiations.
Don’t Base Your Value Only on Your Current Salary
Many people think that their past salary is a measure of their value. Rather, Barnyak advises looking at what the industry is actually paying, conducting research on salaries, talking to other professionals in the field, and comparing similar jobs.
Fear of Losing the Offer Stops Most People
One of the common mistakes made by many candidates is not negotiating because they are afraid that the company may withdraw the offer. When negotiations are conducted professionally and respectfully, that’s nearly never the case, says Barnyak.
Never Make Threats You Won’t Follow Through On
A threat to lose a client’s business can be a serious blow to your credibility. If you say that you will not accept less than x number, you must really mean it. Otherwise, you’re in a weaker negotiating position right off the bat.
Don’t Try to Handle Everything Alone
Teams negotiate all the time—they have experience and don’t have attachments to the result. Barnyak suggests consulting mentors, peers, or professionals rather than going it alone.
Hearing No Doesn’t Mean You Failed
One of the biggest things to get right is to see rejection as not being a disaster. Asking will establish confidence and experience for future negotiations, even if the company refuses.
Most People Accept Offers Too Quickly
But Barnyak cautions against jumping to the conclusion of a “yes” without considering whether or not the offer is truly exceptional. Sometimes, spending time reviewing and negotiating terms can result in increased wages, bonuses, or better benefits.
His Simplest Rule: Just Ask
The quickest way to “forget” to collect more money, Barnyak says, is to never ask for it. Even with just a little professional negotiating, you can make more money than you’d think.
