Guidelines to Successful Negotiations

Negotiation is a give-and-take affair. It involves meeting the other person's needs whilst fulfilling your own. Although, this cannot always be done, employers are used to negotiating so, as long as you're realistic and polite, and can justify your requests, then you should be able to reach a positive outcome for all.

Important Points to Remember

• What's important to you about the job? This may have a bearing on deciding how far you're prepared to compromise.
• What's a fair salary range for the job? Knowing this will ensure that your demands and your employer's offer are both realistic.
• What's your 'minimum offer' position? Knowing your needs will ensure that any unrealistic offers are rejected.
• What is your 'best outcome' package? Make sure that it is realistic, but optimistic.
• What are you willing to trade? Remember that you can negotiate on bonuses, car allowance, pension contributions, healthcare contributions or number of days holiday.
• Will they put it in writing? Make sure that you get the job offer and contract in writing before giving anything other than a conditional acceptance. This should include any additional salary, bonuses or perks that you have negotiated.

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