Weighing the opportunity

Formal salary negotiations usually occur towards the end of the hiring process. However, savvy job seekers will prepare for negotiations well in advance.

Before you start negotiations make sure you have all the information that you need to make an intelligent decision about the job. Gather information on the company, your future coworkers and managers, job content and your projected career path. Discuss the offer with your family, friends or colleagues.

At first, put aside the issue of compensation and focus on the content and future of the job. After you have decided that the opportunity is right, begin to focus on compensation.