First Time Negotiation QuestionsSo, I'm ready to make the move out of my first "real" job. I am a manufacturing manager in a small town making (a measly) mid 40's salary. My department has 75 employees and runs 3 shifts. I have negotiated salaries before for my own staff, with the help of HR but usually they were inside candidates without too many questions. Here are my questions: 1. I know positions like mine pay around 60k and up, but I'm willing to work for 50k or so with the potential for bonuses' and future increases. Im also pretty young for my experience (28). Should I tell them up front my expectations, even though they are a little low? 2. Should I still consider vacations on the table, even if they have a policy? 3. I'm considering an online MBA program, and if the company does not offer any school reimbursement I understand. But, some programs require a contact with the company you are in, that can verify some projects I work on in the program. Is something like that negotiable? Should it be in writing? 4. Pretty unrelated, but I'm looking for advice...Please use the following statements to answer...I broke my wrist playing hockey a couple weeks ago....I would also prefer my current employer did not know I am on the market. Is it OK to go to an interview in Khakis and a polo shirt w/ a big honking cast up to my shoulder? I figure I have a pretty good icebreaker..... I imagine a potential employer would understand... 1. Not sure where you got the $60K number but if it is the real market value of the job, I would build your range around that ($55 - 65K). 2. You can mention vacation but most companies have rules regarding vacations. Don't make it a deal killer. 3. I think you bring up the MBA program and the need for company contact once you have been working there and built up some relationships. Don't make it an item to negotiate during the hiring process. 4. If you can not wear a suit or shirt and tie, you really have no choice. I would probably prefer a short-sleeve shirt to a polo shirt and dark pants to khakis. Certainly apologize for whatever you wear and explain that you would have ben in a suit if you could get it over your cast. As for your current employer knowing about your job search, most employers understand the confidential nature of a job search but it doesn't hurt to mention it during your interview. 1. Generally speaking, it doesn't make sense to switch jobs unless the salary is at least 10% to 15% more than you're earning now. So, if you're willing to go, let's say, from $45K to about $50K to $53K or $54K, you should be fine. I would not disclose my anticipated salary range unless specifically asked for it. If you're offered less than $50K you can always politely ask if the offer is negotiable, since you will know what your anticipated salary range is. 2. Probably not. Most companies have established vacation policies in order to insure that all employees are treated fairly and equally. 3. Once you get all the other details worked out are you're just about ready to accept the offer, just ask if they have a tuition reimbursement program and see what they say - either they do or they don't. If they do, they also probably have some sort of agreement that will require you to stay with that company for X period of time or to repay the money to the company if you leave early. 4. As a traditionalist, I'd wear a short sleeve collared shirt with a stripped or club tie, and I'd put my good arm through a jacket sleeve and drape the other sleeve over my shoulder. That may be a pain, (no pun intended), but it will show that you're at least trying to dress properly for the interview. Paul W. Barada The Negotiation Expert | |
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