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I got offered $1 an hour over the average salary, but I feel like my experience warrants more. Is this a good offer?
In general, a company establishes pay ranges for its jobs. A company’s base pay structure is the framework that is created to make pay decisions. Businesses determine where each job’s worth fits relative to other jobs by analyzing the nature of the job and the level at which the work is performed. It provides pay levels to be internally fair, externally competitive, cost-effective, and support the organization’s compensation strategy.
Typically, a company will check its internal equity (seniority, etc. of other employees doing the same job) to determine the base salary to offer a new employee. Sometimes, depending on the job, you can negotiate for other benefits, like additional days off, in lieu of additional base salary.
How can I get the highest amount possible when negotiating?
Different job responsibilities and demand for hot skills will determine the extent to which you can negotiate. Do your homework, know your numbers, and be mindful of your value, the skills, education, and qualifications that make you the potential employee that should be hired.
Salary isn't important to me. I just really want to work at that company. How can I express that without sounding like I am not interested in the job?
Total compensation--all of the benefits the company offers, like career development, wellness programs, recognition, health and education benefits, employer 401(k) match--should be considered when determining what offer to accept. In that case, indicate you are willing to accept the offered pay range for the job because you are looking forward to contributing to that company and all of the satisfaction that work alone will bring to you.
Salary was not discussed in the interview. Can I bring it up?
The interview was to determine your “fit” for the job and within the organization. Salary will more than likely be left to the recruiter or HR. You don’t want to suggest that you only care about money, but if you have to ask, simply ask for the salary range for the position.