Knowing the Power of Salary Negotiations

When you're considering negotiating better salary or perks than you've been offered, it's important to have a realistic understanding of how much bargaining power you have. The following will help you get a grasp on whether you're bargaining from a stronger or weaker position.

Stronger: You were strongly recommended.

Weaker: You came in through a job posting.

Stronger: You enter the picture when there are few or no other candidates.

Weaker: You enter the picture when there are many candidates.

Stronger: You have lots of relevant experience and accomplishments.

Weaker: You have limited relevant experience or accomplishments.

Stronger: Your discussions focus on the job.

Weaker: Your discussions focus primarily on your qualifications.

Stronger: You've done a good job of building your perceived value.

Weaker: You've left it to the employer to assess your value.

Stronger: The employer is concerned about your taking a job elsewhere.

Weaker: The employer is unconcerned about your going elsewhere.

Stronger: The hiring manager checks in with you frequently and answers your calls quickly.

Weaker: Your phone never rings, and your calls are taken by an assistant.

Stronger: They call to make sure you received the offer letter-and that you like it.

Weaker: There's little or no follow-up on the offer letter.

Stronger: They are courting you and give special attention to your feelings about the company.

Weaker: There's no courting or concern for your feelings about the company.

Stronger: They mention attractive extras such as a good signing bonus, stock options, and a generous moving allowance.

Weaker: They seem to have a take-it-or-leave-it attitude.

Stronger: You have attractive alternatives and are not worried about your prospects.

Weaker: You're feeling desperate and afraid of losing this opportunity.