Influencing the Job Offer to Get the Title, Salary and Flexibility You Desire

Do you know that most job seekers leave money on the table? Yes even in today's economy there is 20% or more to be earned above the job offer.

Below you will learn the three strategies to maximize your job offer. First find out how much your experience is worth. Use the internet to research current earnings for your experience and job title. You can also use ONET, an online database of thousands of occupations to see how your experience matches up and to check incomes for your geographic area. Once armed with this information you can review your offer. Ideally you should do this before even starting your job seeking adventures, especially if you have not switched jobs or received a raise for some time. Also look at the entire offer, including vacation time, tuition, 401 plans, stock options and health benefits. Identify an income number you feel good about and make that your desired salary.

Next what about your title? Especially if a company cannot flex on the salary they might consider a title change. It may make a big difference in your career if you are a manager or a Director. What title would suit your next transitions?  I work with a CEO of an organization and several members of her executive team. She always wondered why they wanted to be at the VP/Director level, titles their positions did not have before. Sometimes a coach helps to keep others motivated by encouraging them to advocate for themselves. So, ask for the big shoes title provided you can fulfill the role.

Next, mold the job around your life. Now is the time to ask for flexibility you need. Can you demonstrate a history of working independently or at home? Do you need flexibility in your work hours at certain times? Is attending your family events important to you? State these values up front and ask for the flexibility you need, again provided you can demonstrate how it won't impair you work responsibilities. What do you have to lose? One client gained a work at home day, another an added $10,000 income, another VP got to work mostly from home for his child's first year.

Influence the job offer; get the title, salary and flexibility you deserve. Demonstrate your great communication and negotiations skills, they will admire you for it and you will be a more engaged, motivated employee.