What negotiation tactics should you avoid during a job interview?

1 Making the first move

One of the most important rules of negotiation is to let the employer make the first offer. This way, you can avoid anchoring yourself to a low or high number that might not reflect your true value or the market rate. If you reveal your expectations too early, you might also lose your leverage or bargaining power. Instead, try to research the salary range for the position and the industry, and wait for the employer to initiate the discussion.

3 Being too rigid or too flexible

A successful negotiation requires a balance between being assertive and being cooperative. You don't want to be too rigid or too flexible in your demands. If you are too rigid, you might come across as arrogant, unrealistic, or demanding. You might also miss out on other aspects of the offer, such as benefits, perks, or growth opportunities. If you are too flexible, you might come across as desperate, insecure, or undervalued. You might also leave money or benefits on the table. Instead, try to be confident and respectful in your communication, and be willing to compromise and explore options.

4 Comparing yourself to others

Another tactic that could hurt your negotiation is comparing yourself to others. You might be tempted to use your colleagues, friends, or competitors as benchmarks for your salary or benefits. However, this could be seen as unprofessional, irrelevant, or inappropriate by the employer. Every situation is different, and every employer has different criteria, budgets, and priorities. Instead of focusing on what others are getting, focus on what you can offer and what you deserve based on your skills, experience, and value.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?