Job Interviews: Get What You Deserve

Hey there, career climbers!

Welcome back to Business Hacks & Theories, where we dive deep into the strategies that make a real difference in your professional life.

Today, we’re combining two concepts that are often thought of separately: negotiation and job interviews.

A job interview isn’t just a chance to sell yourself—it’s also the perfect time to negotiate.

From salary expectations to working conditions, the interview is your first opportunity to make sure your needs align with those of your future employer.

Let’s dig into how negotiation plays a key role during the interview process and how you can use it to get what you truly deserve.

Negotiation Starts Before You Step in the Room

One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is thinking negotiation starts at the offer stage.

The truth is, it begins well before that—during your initial research and preparation.

Knowing the value you bring to the table is crucial. By understanding the average salary for the role, the company's specific needs, and how your skills align with those needs, you set the stage for a strong negotiation.

Approach your interview with a clear understanding of your "non-negotiables"—whether it’s a specific salary range, work-life balance, or the flexibility to work remotely.

Being informed from the get-go gives you the confidence to bring up these points without hesitation and establishes a solid foundation for later discussions.

The Interview Is the First Negotiation

Think of the interview as the first round of negotiations. Employers are not only evaluating your skills but also your ability to communicate effectively, your self-awareness, and how you handle pressure—all of which are crucial in any negotiation. Here are a few tips to leverage negotiation principles during the interview:

Frame Your Value Before Talking Compensation

Before diving into compensation discussions, make sure to first highlight your value.

When you articulate clearly how your skills, experience, and insights can directly address the company’s challenges, you establish a stronger position for negotiation.

It’s not simply about stating what you want—it's about demonstrating why what you’re asking for is deserved.

This step makes the entire process more persuasive and effective.

Ask Strategic Questions

Negotiation is about understanding the needs of the other party, and the interview is no different.

Asking thoughtful questions like, “What are the most pressing challenges for someone in this role?” or “How does the company envision work-life balance?” gives you valuable insight that will help you later.

Their answers not only guide you in tailoring your responses but also reveal whether the company is a good fit for you.

Be Ready for the Salary Question

The inevitable salary question will come up, and it's crucial to be prepared.

Instead of being caught off guard, you could ask for the company's range first or respond by saying, “I’d like to learn more about the role and expectations before providing a specific number, but based on my research and experience, I'm expecting a competitive compensation in the range of X to Y.”

This approach not only sets the frame for your expectations but also signals flexibility and confidence.

Negotiating the Offer: Tactics to Use

Once you get to the offer stage, this is where real negotiation begins.

By now, the employer has expressed interest, and you have the leverage to ensure your needs are met.

Here are some effective tactics to keep in mind:

Take Time to Evaluate the Offer

While it might be tempting to accept an offer immediately, especially if you’re excited about the role, it’s often better to take a pause.

Thank them for the offer and ask for some time to evaluate it thoroughly. This gives you the space to consider whether there are other benefits or perks to negotiate and shows that you’re thoughtful about making the best decision.

Consider the Entire Package

Salary is just one part of what makes an offer worthwhile.

Don't hesitate to consider other elements like vacation time, professional development opportunities, flexible work schedules, signing bonuses, or even equity. If there's little flexibility with the salary, emphasizing these other components might make the offer more compelling overall.

Use Data to Back Your Ask

Negotiations are most compelling when they are supported by data. Use platforms like Glassdoor, Payscale, or industry-specific reports to understand typical compensation for someone with your skills and experience. Having this data helps establish your credibility and provides a firm foundation for your request, making it harder for employers to dispute your ask.

Handling Common Employer Tactics

Employers often have their own tactics during negotiations. Understanding these can help you prepare to respond confidently:

Handling 'Final Offer' Statements

Sometimes an employer will say, “This is our final offer,” but that’s not always the end of the conversation.

You can respond with something like, “I understand, and I appreciate the transparency. However, if there’s flexibility in other parts of the package, I’d be open to discussing those options.”

This approach shows flexibility while still demonstrating that you value a comprehensive agreement.

Navigating 'No Room for Negotiation' Claims

If an employer says that there’s no room for negotiation, it’s still worth probing gently. Ask if there’s flexibility in other parts of the offer, such as more vacation days or professional development opportunities.

Many times, employers are willing to make adjustments in areas that aren't directly related to salary, so it's always worth exploring what else can be negotiated.

The Power of Walking Away

Finally, one of the most powerful negotiation tools you have is the willingness to walk away.

If the offer does not meet your minimum expectations or compromises your non-negotiables, it’s important to be prepared to say no.

This isn’t easy, especially after a lengthy interview process, but sometimes it’s necessary to protect your long-term happiness and career growth.

Walking away from a subpar offer doesn’t mean failure—it means valuing yourself enough to wait for the right opportunity.

With love,

Alex

?? Struggling with job interview negotiations? At Kredo Marketing, we help professionals develop the confidence and skills needed to navigate complex negotiations. Let’s make sure you get what you deserve. ??