MightyRecruiterReceiving a job offer can be an exciting time, but as a new employee, don’t let this excitement distract you from negotiating the terms of your employment. Before you start your new job, you should be sure that your job meets your expectations, both professionally and financially. During this process, you will need to discuss topics that were not discussed during the initial interview, such as salary and benefits. Follow the tips below to negotiate a job offer.
1. Receive Your Offer in Writing
Before any further discussion occurs, you should make sure that you receive a hard copy of your job offer in writing. This offer should contain details of your employment, such as working hours, health benefits, salary, and vacation days. Read the document carefully and thoroughly, and if you notice any vague or unusual details, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. After receiving a favorable job offer, tell your employer that you will respond with a definite decision in a few days. This will give you an adequate amount of time to consider whether or not the terms of the job offer will suit your needs.
2. Be Sure You Understand Your New Role
During the interview, you should always make sure that you understand the functions of your role and the responsibilities accompanying it. Take time to decide whether or not these responsibilities and tasks match your skills, education level, and experience. It is also a good idea to only accept a job that you will be interested in, since you will spend a considerable portion of your day at work.
3. Negotiate Your Salary and Benefits
No one wants to work for free, so it is important to understand the financial details of your job offer. Be sure that you ask the following questions.
• How much will I be paid?
• How often will I be paid?
• What type of benefits am I eligible for?
• How long do I have to work before receiving my benefits?
• What days do have off?
Asking these questions will allow you to decide whether or not you are comfortable with your salary. If you are not comfortable with the offered salary, don’t hesitate to negotiate. Take time to perform research about the position in general and the average salary. You should also make sure that your employer addresses issues such as retirement plans, health insurance, and overtime requirements.
4. Ask About the Training and Advancement Processes
Does the company you will be working for offer advancement opportunities? How much training will you have to receive before you actually start working? These questions will provide you with an understanding of your employer’s career advancement and training policies. No one wants to be stuck in the same position indefinitely, and it is only fair that you are adequately recognized for your hard work. Always be sure that you will be able to advance within the company with the support of your higher level employees.
5. Learn About Termination Policies
Every job offer is accompanied by the threat of future termination, but discussing termination policies can give you an edge in the workplace. What sort of actions or behavior warrant termination? Does your company have a severance policy in place? This part of the job negotiation conversation may seem awkward at first, but it is necessary if you want to avoid being blindsided later on. Be sure that you understand the specific details of the company’s termination and layoff protocols.
Prepare Questions Beforehand
Job negotiation doesn’t have to be a scary or intimidating process, and with a bit of preparation and forethought, you can easily ensure that your job fits your needs. Your employer will be expecting you to ask questions, so be sure to listen closely during the interview process. By following the tips above, you will be able to negotiate your job with confidence and professionalism.
Legal Disclaimer
The content on our website is only meant to provide general information and is not legal advice. We make our best efforts to make sure the information is accurate, but we cannot guarantee it. Do not rely on the content as legal advice. For assistance with legal problems or for a legal inquiry please contact you attorney.