4 Reasons Why You SHOULD Discuss Salary In An Interview

I have heard many so-called experts say that you should not discuss salary in an interview. The rationale is that you're not in a strong enough negotiating position in that setting. In fact, here's a recent article endorsing just that practice.

Well, I'm here to tell you that all those "experts" are wrong--especially in this tightening economy. That's right, you SHOULD talk salary in an interview! Here are four reasons why:

1. If they're talking salary, they want to hire you.
You've just gone through a series of great interviews. Do you want to derail the momentum by putting off arguably the most important part? I don't think so. You want to engage in that conversation and be ready for it before going in.

2. You're instantly in a strong position when they bring up salary in the interview.
The interviewer is tipping her hand if she starts talking salary. It means you now have the opportunity to start defining terms. They're asking you what YOU require in order to come work for them. That sounds like a strong position to me.

3. You're on your game. Don't second guess.
You know how you've prepared for the interview. You've just nailed it. This is the time when you're at your highest personal confidence level. You've received validation that you're a star. Capture that moment of personal strength!

4. If you're unemployed, recently laid off, or need to change jobs quickly, you need to close the deal.
In this economy, getting the job you want--at least the offer--is paramount. Do you want to leave your offer up to chance? Time is your enemy. Get the deal closed and be ready to move into your new position.

The absolute KEY in all of this, is to be prepared to have that conversation in the interview. You have to set a salary goal before you even walk in the door. Interviewers will often ask, "how much are you making now?" When you're prepared for the question, you're poised, confident, and ready to give the answer that maximizes your compensation for the position. Your calm, cool demeanor will signal to the interviewer that you are ready. That shows you're ready to tackle the challenges of your new position because you're calm under pressure.

Here's even more content on the subject. Check out this (less than 3 minute) video that shows a situation where I was prepared with my data and ended up getting a 35% salary increase switching jobs just by being prepared to negotiate in the interview!

You also don't want to let time change your position in the minds of the company. You know how slowly companies move on offers when there's a delay. It could be a month before you here from them again. Discussing salary in the interview is a MUST these days if you have the opportunity. They could offer other candidates in the time between your interview and when you hear from them. You would never know that someone took your job.

And you can always talk benefits and other particulars later. The point is to come to an agreement quickly so you can secure your economic viability and start the new job you want.

Check out more salary negotiation advice at SpringRaise Salary Negotiation.

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