Can You Really Discuss Salary Without it Being Awkward?

Salary negotiation is often considered taboo during a job interview, but in order to know if a position is a viable option for you personally, professionally and financially, it's a conversation that needs to happen. To maximize your time and your job search options, avoid waiting for the job offer to bring up salary.

Gauge Interest

Bring up salary negotiations toward the end of an interview only if the hiring manager has expressed interest in hiring you. Evaluate how long the interview lasted, the type of detailed questions you answered and the tone of the interview. Was the hiring manager enthusiastic about you joining the team? If so, ask for a salary range to determine if the position pays what you're worth. Avoid approaching the discussion in an aggressive manner. Casually ask what the company is prepared to pay for a qualified candidate to show your interest in joining the team.

Determine Your Qualifications

Avoid salary negotiations if you have entry-level experience. This discussion may not lean in your favor if you don't have the experience or skills to back up the salary you seek or what the company is prepared to offer you. Focus the interview on your eagerness, enthusiasm and willingness to positively impact the company's procedures, production and profits.

Evaluate the Risks

It's no secret that job seekers expect a salary, but it can produce a negative impression if you bring up salary negotiations too early in an interview or even prior to the interview during a screening call. Trust your gut, and wait until the moment is right and you've thoroughly discussed your skills and qualifications. This way, you have proven your expertise, your professional worth and your willingness to work for the firm.

Ease Into the Discussion

The best time to bring up salary negotiations is when the employer begins selling the job to you. Inquire about a typical day in the position and ask questions about the teams you might work with while on the job. After discussing logistics, ask the hiring manager if you can address salary. Ease into the conversation without offering numbers or your bottom line. Avoid blurting out aggressive phrases such as "How much does this job pay?" or "What are you willing to pay me?" When salary ranges are proposed, avoid scoffing if the job offer is too low. Instead, indicate that you need time to evaluate the opportunity, and offer the hiring manager an appreciative "thank you" for his or her time.

Discussing salary negotiations with a hiring manager does not have to be a negative or awkward experience. Focus on exploring your qualifications that fit the job description, and ease into the conversation to adequately show you're interested in more than just a paycheck.

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