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Keller helps you research salary ranges & prepare for salary negotiations

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Salary Research and Negotiation Tips

Salary research relevant to the industry and type of position you're pursuing is a critical part of the job search process. Many factors affect compensation, including the following:

  • Industry
  • Type of employer
  • Salary range established by the company for the position
  • Your current compensation
  • Company size
  • Benefits offered
  • Corporate philosophy
  • Competition in the field
  • Geographic location
  • The skill set you bring to the job

 

To the extent possible, find information that correlates with your education and experience level. Also, be sure to:

  • Consider cost of living when comparing positions in different geographic areas.
  • Look for similar job listings that mention salary range.
  • Review business and trade journals, and contact professional associations.
  • Ask your networking contacts what their companies pay employees with your experience

Learn about Salary Negotiations and Fair Compensation

An abundance of helpful salary information is available on the Internet, but be sure to use this salary research merely as a benchmark.

  • Never cite a salary survey when negotiating your own compensation. You may talk your way right out of a job.
  • When negotiating salary, ask what range of salary the company is prepared to pay for the position. Then provide reasons (educational background, professional experience) why you merit the high end of the range.
  • If asked what you currently make, be honest. It's a legitimate question. If you try to avoid answering directly, you may reduce your chance of securing the job offer.
  • Let the company make the initial salary offer. After this, either accept the offer or formulate a salary negotiation strategy. Such salary negotiations can be risky, so consult your career services advisor before attempting to negotiate.
  • Salaries cited in many surveys are often just median figures, meaning half of those surveyed make more and half make less.

Want to learn more? Talk to your career advisor or visit the following site for valuable insight into salary research and ranges: