By Rowe Leathers
Contributor, Career Services
Putting your game face on when you are desperate for a job is a challenge for many of us in today’s market. After months of job search, your gut reaction is to jump at the first offer that comes your way. But should you?
How do you negotiate salary when you have been unemployed for while? Do you have leverage to negotiate the initial salary offer? Absolutely!
Desperation and unemployment aside, you must walk into these negotiations with the same purpose and focus that would if you were employed. Having in mind your end-result will help keep you focused when you go in to negotiate.
How much of a salary will it take to get you into this job? That is the question you should be contemplating because that is the very same question the employer is looking to answer.
Research is the key in knowing your target salary. Use websites such as salary.com and glassdoor.com to determine the salary range in your area. From the salary range, find a middle point where you will be comfortable accepting the position. Negotiating to be at the higher end of the salary spectrum will take some nerves of steel than many may not have after months of unemployment. But if you have the experience and the education to warrant a higher starting salary, it is not unreasonable. Keep in mind the employer is investing time and money to bring you onboard, and will not want you to continue your job search. Finding a mutually beneficial number is important to both sides.
To prepare yourself, I suggest making a list of what you will bring to the position. Do you have years of experience with proven success? Would you be a strong asset to the team? If they extended a job offer, clearly the answer is yes.
As hard as it may be, set aside your feelings of desperation and concerns about your extended unemployment. There is no room for anxiety going in with your game face. Have in mind the absolute walk-away number that you will accept. Remember: there are other things to consider such as the corporate culture, potential for growth and flexibility. Is this a position you really want? Sometimes, the payoff is not in the salary, so consider the overall package.
Your attitude and presentation can make or break the deal. Walking in with leverage will give you the confidence you need, so leave the thoughts of mounting bills, and months of unemployment at the door.
Remember, even if the employer knows about your extended unemployment, realize that you are offering a solid package. Clearly, you have the skills and talents that they need, so put your game face on, walk in with confidence and negotiate your salary as they would want you to negotiate for their team.
