How to gain a recruiters respect before earning their green
One of the biggest things you can do to improve your financial status other than saving money, investing money and controlling your money, is to make more money. These are the dos and don’ts of salary negotiations:
Do ask the recruiter for the salary range of the position before offering what you would like to receive as an entry-level salary. Offer up a number that you find appropriate to your qualifications.
Don’t use the word “expect” when discussing your salary, corporations prefer the word “hope.” It shows willingness to cooperate and be a team member.
Do have the confidence to speak up and ask for a higher salary than the average entry-level employee if you feel that you deserve it.
Don’t go looking for more salary if you don’t have a host of reasons you deserve it more than anyone else who has ever started there in your position. They will want to know why you feel that way, they just might be asking.
Do be honest about your previous salary if asked, but don’t offer it up on your own accord.
Don’t offer up a previous salary as a bargaining point to aid in the negotiation, and don’t lie about it either. In the corporation’s eyes it is not about the numbers, but about what you can do for them above any other candidates.
Do show gratitude and appreciation for any offer you receive within your budgeted expectations; let them know that you would (at least) consider it.
Don’t jump on the first offer that is within your range. Allow them the opportunity to raise the offer if they so choose. You might be worth more than you realize.
Do appear humble, and speak your qualifications with a subtle confidence.
Don’t point out the people in the office you think you are better than. If it isn’t already obvious enough to them without you having to say, it shouldn’t be said at all (a good rule of thumb).
Do study up, and do your homework on the typical salary ranges the position you are applying for.
Don’t go into negotiations half cocked, spouting whatever high numbers meets your current titillation for the day.
You want to make the process as pleasurable as you can for both parties involved. Through these negotiations, your employer can get a glimpse of your business style and team attitude. You want them to walk away thinking to themselves, “What a dynamic woman; I’m looking forward to working with her.”