Negotiating job offers can be a bit of a minefield from both sides. If handled poorly from either side, frustration can ensue and the relationship between employer and potential employee can be irrevocably damaged. The end result can be that no one ends up happy. So how can job offer negotiations be done well? Here are some recommendations for getting the negotiations off to a flying start.
Aiming for the win-win
The golden rule for any negotiation process is to shoot for a win-win. Such an approach demonstrates respect and encourages a positive relationship. Seeking a win-win outcome from the start will set the tone for the working relationship moving forward and is likely to lead to satisfaction on both sides. A win-win approach is less likely to result in ‘buyer’s remorse’ on either side of the negotiating table further down the line.
Candidate factors
Entering negotiations with a plan is important. Know your market and your worth and have figures at hand to back this up. If you know your boundaries and what you will and won’t accept, you are less likely to end up feeling aggrieved further down the line. However, be aware that you will very likely encounter resistance. It is unlikely that any employer will just roll over and give you everything you want. Being realistic and fair without underestimating your worth is key.
Employer considerations
Despite some adverse market conditions, the employment rate in Ireland is still holding up extremely well. Candidates are making informed decisions before making a career move and securing top talent is undoubtedly hard. While that isn’t a reason to simply roll over and give in to a candidate’s every demand, listening and considering what you can do is important. Then, being clear and direct on what is possible is critical, so that candidates understand what is being offered to them. Ask yourself, “Can we really not offer them that?” And “Why not?” Ask yourself, “What can we do?”
Time sensitivity – be reasonable
While the employer should be direct, riding roughshod over the candidate will not win them over. Demanding that candidates give an answer in an unreasonably short time frame is unhelpful, as is requiring that they start before their notice period is complete. Meanwhile, the candidate should not expect a prospective employer to wait any more than a few days for a decision. Being realistic and reasonable will facilitate the best outcomes.
A note on ultimatums
For either side, ultimatums are a bad idea. From the employer’s side this suggests a working culture that is not flexible. It also may damage the employer’s reputation, since from the candidate perspective ultimatums will likely feel unfair. Conversely, employers might find candidates that issue ultimatums to be at best, closed-minded, and at worst difficult to work with. Issuing an ultimatum can lead to possibilities not being explored and this lowers leverage.
Finding your way through job offer negotiations can be tricky but SureSkills has the expertise to help. Why not get in touch today to find out how?
