Ways to Land the Salary You Deserve
- Research the salary range for jobs you are considering. Some good websites include:
- Onetonline.org
- Chroniclecareerlibrary.com (access available on the SCC campus computers only)
- Salary.com
- How does the salary range compare to what your personal wants and needs are? Are your expectations realistic?
- How do your skills, education and experience compare to the average person performing this job?
- What type of benefits may be included in the job? Vacation, health benefits, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, etc. are all things to consider.
- Have an acceptable salary in mind before an interview, but save any negotiations or discussion until after you receive a job offer.
- When asked about salary expectations, say “negotiable," “open” or indicate a broad range such as $8-$12/hour on the application or during your employment interview.
- When an offer is made, if the salary is below your expectations:
- Restate your interest and enthusiasm over the position.
- Highlight any special abilities or skills you offer that are above what an “average” employee may have.
- Cite the research you have done about salaries for this type of work.
- Tell the employer a range of your salary expectations (e.g., mid-high twenties, $12-14/hour, etc.).
- If salary is not negotiable, reiterate your interest and enthusiasm for the position and ask:
- How you might quickly contribute to the organization to make this position more valuable.
- If your salary could be reviewed after three months.
- About any benefits that come with the job and if any could be adjusted to help meet your needs (work from home at times? flextime? additional vacation?).
- Always be polite and positive.
- Give yourself at least 24 hours to think about your final decision.
