ISL Recruitment's Ace Blogger - Alistair Reyland - gives his opinion on negotiating your salary.

We don’t like to negotiate our salary, it’s a part of our British nature. We avoid awkward situations so much that even have second-hand embarrassment from just hearing about an awkward situation. Not wanting to negotiate your salary might seem like a confidence issue but in reality it’s more complex than that, particularly for women.

If you’re accepting a new role don’t accept the first salary presented, negotiate. While it may appear a necessary evil, don’t let that stop you from getting a salary that you’re happy with. We present more general tips, but don’t forget that a salary negotiation can occur over the phone, on email, or face-to-face so tailor the information to the medium you’re using.

Set Aside The Pride

Let’s set one thing straight, salary negotiation is not begging. Don’t think that once an employer has shortlisted candidates, they will just choose the one with the cheapest salary. They don’t. Employers don’t do it to watch your squirm they do it to give you a final chance to illustrate your value; show the elevator that your skills are worth the extra buck. Salary negotiations will feel stressful and exciting but remind yourself to stay professional and positive!

Come Prepared

Chances are if you’re using a recruiter they will ask you what your salary expectations are at the beginning of the process. It helps the recruiter navigate the landscape to find the best fit for you. With that in mind, you should be entering the recruitment process with an idea of what you should/want to be paid. Know the market range by talking to your network and online research, Glassdoor can be pretty helpful. Just always remember, range not rate!

Don’t Rush

Once you’ve been offered a salary take the time to reflect on it. While declining the offer might be the right thing to do, jumping the gun with a firm “no!” is rude. Beyond that, not rushing gives you time to consider the other elements of the job. Does the company have a strong company culture? Maybe that is more important for you than a bit more money. It’s all about looking at the bigger picture.

Don’t Forget Benefits

It’s not all about salary. If after the salary negotiation is over you’re not that happy with the outcome, try and leverage with a few perks. It might be a discounted gym membership or working from home twice a month. Find what would make your work-life happiness and ask for it. After all, job benefits are often more important than your salary.

It’s All About the P’s

If you remember anything for this blog post it should be the two P’s, patients and persistence. The salary negotiation process can be long so buckle up. Don’t let a rejected offer deter you from persisting with your counteroffer. Keep trying until you find a comfortable balance!