under estimated salary expectationsWhen given a phone interview for a full-time position I was asked for my salary requirements. The salary offered did not meet my requirements. Prior to the interview, I had decided I wanted to work part-time instead. I asked the interviewer if they offered part-time positions as well. She stated it was possible and if so what would my salary expectations be for part-time. I did not know what to say being I had never searched for part-time and there more than likely would not be any benefits involved. I jumped the gun and through out a number. I've been on a personal interview and have taken tests for the position. The H.R. Mgr has left me a message to return her call. I'm scared she is going to offer the position at the number I originally through out and I feel it should be more. What do I do if offered the number I originally stated in the phone interview?
Initially, I suppose there's a moral here about knowing what your salary requirements are, even for part-time work, before interviews begin, but that's a moot point now. Wait and see what's offered first. If it's an amount you'd otherwise be happy to accept, accept it. If it's too low, or as low as the amount you mentioned, just politely ask if their initial offer is negotiable and see what they say. If it is, and you're asked what salary you have in mind, I think you need to be prepared with a range that's reasonable - which means you need to be thinking about what part-time salary you'd be willing to accept. You also should be prepared to make the point that now that you know more about the job and what will be required, you were anticipating on offer for a part-time position in the $X to $Y range, and see what happens. If knowing more about the job isn't a logical statement to make, you could also "fess up" and say that you mis-spoke when you threw out the initial amount you would anticipate for a part-time position. Just make sure you have a reasonable salary range in mind before you return the call. Paul W. Barada The Negotiation Expert | |
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Career Tips
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