Page 12 - ExOffInterviewGuideBK_SAMPLE pgs 1

106 The Ex-Offender’s Job Interview Guide

For more information on how to become a savvy salary negotiator, see my three
companion volumes: Give Me More Money, Salary Negotiation Tips for Professionals,
and Get a Raise in 7 Days.

Most Salaries Are Negotiable

Contrary to what many job seekers believe, salary is seldom predetermined except for
entry-level and minimum wage positions. Most employers have some flexibility to nego-
tiate salary and benefits. While few employers try to blatantly exploit applicants (some
do, especially in minimum wage positions), neither do they want to pay applicants more
SAMPLE
than what they have to or what a candidate will accept.
Salaries are usually assigned to positions or jobs rather than to individuals. But not
everyone is of equal value in performing the job; some are more productive than others.
Since individual performance differs, you should attempt to establish your value in
PAGE
the eyes of the employer rather than accept a salary figure for the job. The art of salary
negotiation will help you do this.

Become a Savvy Salary Negotiator
ONLY
Just how savvy a salary negotiator are you? How prepared are you to negotiate a salary
that truly reflects your worth? What knowledge and skills do you need to become a
savvy salary negotiator?
Let’s start by evaluating your knowledge and skill level for becom ing an effective
COPYRIGHTED
salary negotiator. Respond to the following state ments by circling “Yes” or “No.” If
you are uncertain about your answer, just leave the statement alone and move on to the
next statement. While some of these questions relate to individuals who are currently
employed or are in white-collar professional positions, try to respond to these statements
MATERIAL
as well as you can.
Your Salary Negotiation I.Q.

1. I know what I’m worth in comparison to others in today’s
job market. Yes No
2. I know what others make in my company. Yes No

3. I can negotiate a salary 15 percent higher than my current salary. Yes No
4. I can negotiate a salary 5-10 percent higher than what the
employer is prepared to offer me. Yes No

5. I know where I can quicky find salary information for my
particular industry and position. Yes No
6. I usually feel comfortable talking about compensation issues
with others, including my boss. Yes No