We all like to think we know how to negotiate. After all, didn't you cut a good deal on your last car? Or how about a fabulous discount on that lawnmower.



So, if you think button-holing a care salesman makes you an expert in negotiating your pay, think again!

Why is it so important to get pay negotiations right? Well, for one thing, your whole livelihood ( and that of your family) depends on it for the foreseeable future. Failing to cut a lucrative pay deal and leaving thousands of dollars on the table has long term repercussions.

For example, a $100 difference a week is over $5000 a year that you'll never see. And frequently, you can get it just by asking for it. But, there's the rub. You're too embarrassed to ask. So you just let financial opportunity pass you by.

Well. Cutting a salary deal takes a little practice. But if you know what to do in advance so that you're in control of the process, you can make your effort upfront pay huge dividends.

What can you do to maximize your salary? Here are 6 powerful tips that can help you dramatically move the odds in your favor:

1. Do your homework. Research the salary range by checking out friends in the same business. Also, go to www.monster.com. Click on the link for "Career Advice" and go to "Salary Center"

2. Don't let the interview get into money issues prematurely. You don't want to be ruled out because you're perceived as too expensive. Tell the interviewer, "I'm confident this position pays a competitive salary. And I'll be happy to discuss compensation when a mutual interest has been established."

3. When it's time to discuss salary, don't negotiate on the basis of what you've been making. Negotiate on the basis of what the job you're being offered is worth.

4. Try to find out what the company is offering before you mention a number. For example you can say, "Thanks for your interest in me. Since you brought up compensation, what is the salary range for this position?"

5. If you're required to mention what you're looking for first, always talk about a range . . . 20% on either side of the number you're looking for.

6. Be sure to go beyond base salary in your deliberations. Benefits, bonuses, profit sharing and stock options can significantly enhance the overall value of an offer.

Handling pay negotiations can be stressful. After all, this is where your job search culminates. Preparing yourself in advance and practicing these strategies out loud can put you way ahead of the game.