It is very important for you to plan your salary negotiation strategy well before you get to the interview. Going in without a plan could mean that your potential employer can take advantage of your lack of knowledge and hire you at a inferior salary, or you will end up with your ideal salary but way too many additional tasks.

Negotiate and come out ahead of the game:

Skills vs. Job Profile

You need to measure your skills against the job profile. That way, you know where you stand. Next conduct some market research to find out what the salary range is for the position.

By knowing the salary range in advance, you’ll have a good idea as to where you should start based on your education, experience and background.

You will also know if the company is “lowballing” you – After all why would you want to work for an employer that does this?

Power of Persuasion

When you start negotiations, be unfaltering but polite while speaking with your interviewer. Don’t get personal and maintain your professional demeanor. If the company is large and you feel that the salary they offer you is not enough, then you could courteously mention the salary offered is equivalent to those offered by smaller companies; and since their company is large and the scope of responsibilities greater, you deserve a more lucrative compensation package.

This is where your coaxing abilities come in.

Convince them that you have advanced skills and experience, so you will be more useful to them in the future. The more you lead the negotiations towards how much the company needs your services, the better your chances are of getting the salary you want. Also, always evaluate the total compensation package, such as health benefits, bonuses, and other incentives when you’re negotiating salary.

There is a thin line between negotiating and haggling - so once you think that you have reached a fair figure, don’t be greedy. The idea is to negotiate, not haggle or force your potential employer into submission.

Have a definite plan in mind before negotiations begin - and you just might get your dream salary, along with your dream job.