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Philip Garside is just the mentor every job seeker needs. A consultant, trainer and author,
Philip has carried out original research into how hiring decisions get made. His book The Secrets
to Getting a Job has sold 50,000 copies. Philip answers questions from SEEK readers about
job seeking in Australia and New Zealand.
Q. Someone suggested to me that you never mention salary at the first interview because it creates the wrong impression but someone else
suggested that you get the salary sorted up front so that you don't waste anybody's time. What is your suggestion?
David, Malvern
A. Both pieces of advice are correct, depending on the situation. If you know what the salary range is and it is acceptable to you,
or if you don't care what the job pays, there is no point in you raising salary issues - leave it to them. If you are not sure what the job pays and you are in the fortunate position to be able
to turn down positions, then you should raise it.
The best way to raise salary details is in 'ball park figure terms'. 'I imagine the salary will be in the vicinity of $45,000 to $50,000 per year, is that right?' In this example $45,000 would be the
minimum you are prepared to accept and $50,000 is the ideal. This way once they offer you a job, genuine negotiations can take place. You have something they want - you, and they have something
you want - the job. In this negotiation your task is to get them as close to $50,000 as you can. Their job is to get you as close to $45,000 as they can. Try not to negotiate pay before being offered
the job.
Good luck,
Philip
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