Q: I am underpaid in my current job. But how do I respond to the salary history question when I am trying to correct that as I interview for new jobs?

A: Do some homework and try to analyze your skills and abilities. Your best strategy is to keep them focused on what is an appropriate amount for you given your experience, skills and credentials today. In addition, be prepared to explain why you are seeking a significant jump in your salary and be ready to help the employer justify paying you this increased amount – those people do not want to feel as if they are overpaying you.

Here are the keys to successful salary negotiation. Follow these simple rules and you should achieve success in this important strategic tool of job-hunting.

    * Make sure you’ve done your research on the salary you should expect for the position you’re seeking.
    * Don't bring up salary before the employer does.
    * Be aware of your strengths and achievements.
    * Let the employer make the first salary offer.
    * Don't inflate your current earnings just to get a higher salary offer.
    * Don't feel obligated to accept the first salary offer. And do negotiate salary if the offer made is inadequate.
    * Don't get overly aggressive in negotiating the salary you want.
    * Don't just focus on salary. Do look at the entire compensation package.
    * Try to obtain other concessions or benefits if you aren’t successful at negotiating a salary you want.
    * Don't enter salary negotiations as part of an ego trip or part of a game.
    * Don't accept the first acceptable salary offer you receive if you’re not sure about the job or the company.
    * Do get the offer in writing.

Related posts

• Motivating Yourself – Practical Tools and Strategies
• India eases visa norms for Pakistani students
• Foreign students to study in Harvard are never denied student visa
• UK student visa freeze: Centre to step in
• How Good Are Your Project Management Skills?