How to Tip the Salary Scale When Negotiating Your Legal Job Offer

How to Tip the Salary Scale When Negotiating Your Legal Job OfferHow to Tip the Salary Scale When Negotiating Your Legal Job OfferI remember my first real experience with negotiations. I was 18 years old and had my eyes on a used 1981 Toyota Celica. My dad went with me, taking the lead on negotiating the purchase price. It all seemed very simple to me we told the owner the amount we were willing to pay, discussed it a bit, and very soon I was proudly driving home my new wheels.Negotiating is a part of everyday life at home, at work, in relationships. But we often dont think twice about the strategies involved.If youre a legal professional seeking employment especially if you have substantial experience and in-demand skills you should give more than a passing thought to salary negotiations. Too often I hear about mistakes people make at this important phase of their legal job search.7 Essential Salary Negotiation TipsHere are some tips to keep in mind before you start negotiating your salary and legal job offerPrioritize whats most important Whether its salary level, healthcare benefits, retirement program, developmental work opportunities, or work/life balance perks, such as flexible working hours, direct your negotiations to the factors that are most imperative to you.Research industry-wide salaries As you explore legal job openings, apply only to positions that complement your skills and experience and salary expectations. Research legal compensation ranges for the position youre seeking through resources such as the U.S. Department of Labors The Occupational Outlook Handbook.And check Robert Half Legals annual Salary Guidethat features salary ranges for more than 100 legal service positions throughout North America.Communicate compensation expectations While you shouldnt discuss a specific salary level with your potential employer at the start of the interview process, mention your basic compensation expectations early on. For example, you can ask, Can y ou explain how compensation is structured for the position?Negotiate salary through your recruiterIf youre working with a recruiter, use that person, a neutral advocate, to negotiate your compensation.Be realistic If your new employer cant meet your salary threshold, ask about possible performance-based incentives that can be earned after the first six or 12 months on the job. You may also want to negotiate non-financial perks that are important to you.Remain positive and open-minded As you engage in salary negotiations, be confident youre worth the compensation youre requesting. However, draw the line between conveying confidence and arrogance.Get it in writing Once youve successfully completed your negotiations, get all the terms agreed upon in writing, including hours required per week, salary, benefits and any other details agreed upon.Throughout the negotiating process, remember that your demeanor sets the tone for your employment with the organization. Being honest, open-mind ed and professional during the salary discussion will maximize your chances of coming to a successful agreement with your new employer.