Let's talk about the money
Negotiating a job offer and salary is easier and smoother if someone handles it on your behalf. But that will only happen if you’re working with a consultant. So if you're on your own, this post is for you.
When I'm not recruiting for companies, I coach people to shine and be successful in interviews.
I’ve recently helped two of my coaching clients navigate the final stages of the recruitment process. One of them had been approached by a former boss who wanted her for his newly created executive team. He took the time to sell the dream, but she was going through the formalities and negotiating her package with HR. The other, a business leader, had two offers and wanted my help as a sounding board to consider them both.
I also helped them keep their feet on the ground by going through the 'what if?' scenarios.
It’s very exciting (and flattering) to be courted for a role, so it's advisable to have someone with a good perspective standing in the wings during the negotiation.
If you haven't got someone in your corner, these tips should help:
Be transparent about the components and structure of your current package. Outline any guaranteed bonuses and the dates they'll be paid out. When giving a start date, be realistic and remember to factor in your commitments. Once you’ve had the conversation, you can follow up with an email and provide the details in writing
Make it clear that you’re serious about the offer, and then pick your points wisely –you don't want to keep going back and forth and be seen to be nitpicking
Package negotiations aren’t black and white – there’s lots of opportunity for grey so do look for flexibility with benefits, holiday allowance, working from home, four-day weeks, nine-day fortnights
Don't be too aggressive and heavy-handed – aim for a win-win solution
Don’t compare apples with pears. if you’ve been used to a corporate business and you’re talking to a small brand, then you might have to bite the bullet on some of your current perks
Keep perspective – job satisfaction isn’t all about money, it's the whole package – the opportunity, the people, and the culture
Don’t let your head get too big – allow the intelligence of your intuition and your ‘gut’ to inform your decision
Do your due diligence and behind-the-scenes referencing about the company and the people you’ll be working for as you go along
Be mindful when you’re negotiating – HR, not the CEO, should handle small details
Do keep in mind that there will be company constraints, and accept that there may be sticking points
Do your negotiations face-to-face or on the phone, then follow up with an email
Don’t negotiate just for the sake of it
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10 common concerns about working with a career coach
Tracy Short & Co offers executive career coaching, recruitment & talent services, and exclusive networking meet-ups.
Tracy has a unique approach to career success – a fresh alternative to traditional career coaching and executive headhunters.
Get in touch to find out how I can help you or your company.