Recently we have spoken about recruitment technologies, how to maintain a great candidate engagement, etc. However, now we want to focus also on candidates. Today we will cover salary negotiation.
Due to the current situation and the fact that coronavirus is still here and still affecting us. We want to give some insights to new, or maybe not so experienced employees, that are seeking new opportunities in these uncertain times.
Because times are changing, some employers are still hiring and recruiters are still searching for talent, you also have to know how to ensure your new future.
We have developed a list of 3 tips you can use when negotiating your next salary. Even if you are not actively looking for a new job, or you want to change the current position, this is a great list for you.
We should start by saying that not all candidates are open to apply through a recruiter. And that is ok if you feel you can do better on your own. However, a recruiter is your best chance of getting what you actually want to form a job.
Why? Simple, because they are as interested in selling you as you are in getting the role. It is no surprise recruiters get a commission once they make a placement. Nevertheless, you have to think about how much that person will work for you because they also have to gain in this deal.
Going through a recruiter is an easy road to getting your dream job. You will not have to interact and negotiate salaries with the company itself, not stressing about too many interviews and so on.
In these uncertain times, recruiters will make a great gateway for you to reach the career you dream of.
So let us begin! Grab that notebook, your comfy working blanket and keep on reading.
Tip number 1. Always negotiate and be prepared
These are like 2 tips in one. Consider them a bonus since they go hand in hand.
The salary negotiation is just that, negotiation. Needless to say, you have to work for the money you want. Neither the recruiter nor the employer is going to come to you and offer the amount you want just because you asked.
Everyone wants to hire the cheapest person and every recruiter wants the best of both worlds.
Some recruiters don’t have high paying job offers, even though the position is for a middle or senior role. They will try their best to negotiate a salary lower than your current one but sprinkled with other benefits that compensate.
Try to be open for alternatives regarding this. Don’t stick to the numbers and reject any other offer that is lower than your expectations. f the new plan has some benefits that your current employer does not offer, you might be interested in it.
A great negotiator is not the one that gets people to accept the offer they propose, it’s the one that acknowledges the benefits of the offer and makes it work in their favour.
However, accepting other benefits is in your best interest only if that salary will be enough for you to live comfortably.
Considering the fact that every country has different costs of living, you need to know which is the lowest salary that will allow you to actually live a comfortable life. This applies if you are relocating to another country as well.
In order for you to get your best salary and not to feel any struggle living, try to do research prior and see yourself what is the lowest salary depending on the cost of living in the country you will work.
This way you can negotiate your needs around it.
Tip number 2. Be aware of the market value when you do salary negotiation
Let’s say you have done your research. You know the minimum cost for living, but you will still want some more money.
Knowing the market value and actually doing your research as to how much are people earning in that specific market and country will help you a lot.
When we say research, don’t google how much is the salary with that specific market. Ask real people around and be sure you are getting the right facts.
Try and have some numbers prepared, know what other people in that niche-earn and how is that based on your experience and value.
A recruiter will know this, so will the employer, therefore request fair pay. Don’t try to make the amount more than what others have told you. Be honest and open to new solutions.
Tip number 3. Be honest and open to salary questions
When we say salary question we mean the amount of money you earn with your current employer, or that you used to earn.
Depending on the country you are from this question from a recruiter will be allowed by law or not. You have to be aware of this because they will only ask if they are permitted.
To some extent, this might be taboo for some candidates. We have heard and read stories where people refused to tell their current salary because it did not seem relevant. Well, it is relevant and I will tell you why.
It’s a simple question to which you are entitled to reply or not. However, know that it is in your best interest to be honest if they do ask. By knowing your previous salary a recruiter can base their negotiation with the client, not with you. They do know you want to make more or have more benefits, that’s no surprise.
Since we already told you, they are on your side. Knowing your salary will allow them to see if your salary expectations are ideal, realistic and if their offer cand stand up to your current benefits. They do not want to waste their time, or yours, trying to figure out why you rejected the offer.
This way they will know your openness to negotiation and how to proceed further with the job offer.
If you are open about your salary and benefits, you have more chances to negotiate a better deal and maybe change some of the benefits in your favour.
So we wrap this up in a few simple words. These are our 3 tips for you to do salary negotiation with a recruiter. They should only be adapted to your way of thinking. However, keep in mind that a recruiter is trying to help you, more since they also get paid to do it.
So what are your strategies when negotiating with a recruiter?