How to counter a salary offer and negotiate

Negotiation is an important part of the process that stands between you and the desired work terms in a sales position. If you do it right, your job will bring you satisfaction and a desirable salary and benefits. To achieve that, you should use some tips for better negotiation.

1. Have a printed version of the job offer. 

First of all, print out the job ad. Suppose you have everything that the company offers in a printed version. In that case, it will be much easier for you to understand it and go through the negotiation process. As a lot of jobs have complex terms, it is necessary for you to choose the easiest way to understand them. 

2. Ask about the average salary. 

work meeting

During a job interview, don’t forget to ask about the average salary of reps with the same experience level as you. Some companies write unrealistic OTE to attract more candidates. Therefore, you should first check whether people who earn that amount of money exist.

3. Make a list of demands. 

You probably have certain demands and expectations for what your job terms should look like. Write a list of your demands for better negotiation. It starts with the most crucial points and ends with ones that are unimportant. When stating your demands, bring out each of them independently, so the hiring manager won’t feel you want too much. 

4. Use a cooperative tone. 

One of the crucial things is not what you want but how you present it. Use a cooperative tone and are willing to negotiate for both parties to achieve mutually good terms. You will have a better chance of success. You can as well use pronouns “we” and “us” instead of “I” and “me.” That will create a collaborative atmosphere and a better tone of the negotiation.

5. Show all your best sides.

Don’t be shy; show all your best sides. If you ask for better pay, prove that your skills and experience are worth the company’s money. You can as well show your W2 as evidence of your value as a worker. The good strategy is to point out that a good salary motivates you for better performance. As you know, performance is crucial in sales. Many companies are willing to pay for good results.

Have you found out which model works for the business you own or are thinking about joining?

  • Commission draw model
  • Base + commission
  • Tiered system

Thomas Jepsen
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