Job Search Tip of the Week #102: Just Ask

Good Morning,

Today is a big day in the Dow Household.  My wife and I are celebrating our 13th Wedding Anniversary!  Since this is the best deal I have ever negotiated, I thought it fitting to make this tip of the week about negotiating the offer.

Tip of the Week: Just Ask!

At some point during just about every workshop that I do someone asks, “How do I get more money when I am offered a new job?”  My answer is always the same: just ask!  My mother always says if you don’t ask you are guaranteed a no!  But if you ask you might just get exactly what you are looking for or close to it.

Here’s how:  The company calls and makes you an offer.  Let’s say they’re offering $45K but you really want to make $50K.  However, you’d be over the moon if you settled at $48k.

What to do?

First, thank them for the offer and let them know how excited you are to have an opportunity to join their organization.  Let them know that the base salary of $45K is a bit lower than expected and that you will have to discuss it with your spouse, partner, or family since you make all important decisions (such as this one) together.  Chances are they will ask what you were expecting and this is your perfect opportunity to say $50K. They will likely come back somewhere in the middle and you can accept.  Now if they don’t ask, you will need to let them know that you will follow-up with them in the morning.  Once you call back in the morning, tell the company that you’ve talked it over with your family and while you’re thrilled with the offer you were hoping to earn $50K.  At that point the company will either accept your offer or come back with a counter – $47.5, $48k or so forth.  At that point you can accept.

Congratulations you have successfully negotiated the job offer.

Remember if you don’t ask you are guaranteed a no…just ask, I did and 13 years later, here I am.

Have a great day and an even better week!
Kwame

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