Wendy writes:
I recently sent a resume/cover letter for a management position in a state I would like to re-locate to. Unfortunately, I read your do’s and don’ts list after I had my initial phone interview. I had no idea what salary range they were offering and was afraid I might be looking for more than what they were offering (the cost of living is less there). I told them how much I make now and said I was willing to accept 25 percent less due to the difference in the cost of living (I made an error there too — I would the figure is actually 15 percent less).
There was no job offer made, but I am flying there again this week for a second in-person interview. If they do offer me the job, how can I negotiate after I’ve already given them this range of 25 percent less-present salary? I also did not take into consideration the fact that my husband doesn’t have a job there yet either, so I really need to make at least what I am now or 10 percent more. I looked at salary ranges and I would be within reason in asking for this. Is there anyway to take my foot out of my mouth now? Is there any hope? Please advise.
The Career Doctor responds:
You’ve definitely made a salary negotiation blunder, but it’s not a lost cause — yet. Not only did you make a mistake in divulging salary information, and not only did you make a mistake in your calculations, but by doing what you did, you also made it seem as though you are a bit desperate for the job — so you should be VERY pleased you are going for another interview.
Your key at this next interview, if a job offer is extended, is to make a strong case for a reasonable salary — given your experience level, given the job itself, given the cost of living, etc. Do NOT bring your husband or any other personal needs into the equation. To persuade an employer about salary, you need to use legitimate business reasons for a higher salary — not personal reasons.
Be sure and review the salary negotiation tutorial and other salary negotiation resources published on Quintessential Careers before making the trip.
Best of luck.
