Landing a job offer can be a big boost to your confidence after putting in some serious hours finding the right role and going through an often-lengthy recruitment process, but what happens when the offer falls short of your expectations?

Relax, an offer really isn’t the end of the recruitment process, so don’t get disheartened just yet! 

I’m Selina, Managing Director at Recruitment Robin, and my advice to anyone finding themselves faced with an underwhelming package on the table is to NEGOTIATE.

Negotiating the terms of your offer is essential to ensure it fully meets your needs, both right now and in the future, so here’s some of my tried and successfully tested techniques for negotiating a better deal, including salary, working hours, remote work, and other perks that might just level up the offer.

Stay Professional

First and foremost, keep your negotiations professional. It’s important to remain courteous and respectful throughout the process. Avoid making unreasonable demands or using an aggressive tone, as this can deter potential employers and make them question their judgement on whether to withdraw the offer.

If your salary request is declined, respond with a formal and understanding email. Maintaining professionalism helps preserve a positive relationship with your potential employer.

Look Beyond Salary

While salary is a significant aspect of any job offer (after all, we’ve all got bills to pay!), don’t overlook other important factors.

Consider negotiating additional benefits that could enhance your overall package. These might include more paid holiday days, additional sick leave, a company car, a smartphone or laptop, private health or dental plans, cycle-to-work schemes, free gym memberships, a company pension plan, flexible working hours, remote or hybrid work opportunities, and discounts at local restaurants and shops.

If increasing the salary isn’t an option, focusing on these benefits can still lead to a more favourable offer that might offer big benefits.

Understand Their Constraints

Recognising the limitations of your potential employer is crucial. While they might want to offer you everything you’re asking for, they may be restricted by company policies or budget constraints.

For instance, large companies with set salary structures might be unable to offer higher pay but could provide additional benefits. Conversely, smaller businesses might have more flexibility with salary adjustments but less capacity for other perks. Understanding these constraints will help you propose realistic and acceptable alternatives.

Explain Why You Deserve What You’re Asking For

Clearly articulate why you deserve the terms you’re negotiating. Even if your application and interview impressed the employer, they need to see the value in your requests.

For example, if you need to work from home a couple of days a week, explain that it aligns with your childcare responsibilities. If you’re asking for a higher salary, highlight your unique skills and experiences that justify the increase.

Be careful to communicate your worth without sounding arrogant. Provide solid reasons to support your negotiation and you could be on to a winner!

Be Prepared for Difficult Questions

Negotiations can sometimes bring up challenging questions that might make you uncomfortable.

Prepare answers to potential queries like, “Do you have any other job offers?” or “If we make you an offer today, will you say yes?” Honesty is key, but avoid giving away too much bargaining power. Showing eagerness without desperation helps maintain a balanced negotiation.

Negotiating a job offer is a crucial step in ensuring the role meets your needs and expectations.

By staying professional, considering the entire package, understanding employer constraints, justifying your requests, and preparing for tough questions, you can navigate this process successfully.

Remember, even if negotiations don’t go as planned, thank the employer for their time and consideration.

If you need expert advice on securing a job offer that truly reflects your skills and experience, contact the Recruitment Robin team. We’re here to help you find positions with great offers tailored to your needs, so get in touch today!