Generally speaking, the rule is it's not worth switching jobs for less than an increase of at least 10% to 15% more than you're earning now.  Figure out that those two amounts would be, based on your present earnings.  Learn as much as you can about the job during the interview process, ask questions about the responsibilities, duties, and expectations.  Then wait and see what sort of offer is made.  If it's at least 10% more than your present earnings, take the offer.  If it's less than 10% more, politely ask if the offer is negotiable and see what they say.  If it's not negotiable, then it will simply be a matter of how much you want this new job because it will, in effect, be a lateral career move - which may be OK if you can advance your career in terms of overall experience.  Ordinarily an offer of less than 10% wouldn't't justify switching jobs, all other things being equal.  If the offer is negotiable, and you're asked what salary you have in mind, counter with your 10% to 15% range.  Say something like, "Now that I have a more complete understanding of the job and it's responsibilities, I was anticipating an offer in the $X to $Y range."  The idea behind countering with a range is to leave the door open for further negotiations within that range - if necessary.  I also think you need to be prepared to state why the job will be worth more to the employer based on how well your qualifications fit the requirements of the job, based on your experience, training, skills, previous job performance, and/or education.  Zat help?

Paul W. Barada

The Negotiation Expert