Negotiating Top Dollar in Your Final Interview
By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter
When entering the final interview, it’s crucial to lay a strong foundation for the compensation discussion. Start by reaffirming your interest in the role and the company, expressing your excitement about the potential to join their team. Emphasize how your skills and experience align with their needs, showcasing the value you can bring to the organization.
The First Response and the Magic Statement
When discussing salary in a final interview, it’s essential to respond strategically when asked about flexibility. A powerful phrase to use is, “Is there any flexibility because based on the research I’ve done, that’s an average salary and I’m not average.” This statement effectively conveys your value and sets the stage for further negotiation.
Highlight Your Value with Data and Achievements
When responding to their points, emphasize why you deserve a higher offer by presenting concrete data and quantifiable achievements. Use specific examples to showcase how your skills and experience align with the company’s needs and how quickly you can add value to their team.
Reinforce Your Worth with a Bold Statement
Following the discussion of your value, enhance the magic statement by asserting, “The salary we’re discussing is for someone who’s average. I’m not average.” This bold declaration reaffirms your exceptional worth and reinforces your stance as an above-average candidate.
Position Yourself as an Exceptional Candidate
Conclude with a compelling assertion, such as, “If I didn’t believe I was the right person for this position, I wouldn’t be trying to hire me.” This statement effectively challenges the employer to recognize your exceptional qualities and sets a high standard for the offer they present.
Switch to Negotiating Total Compensation
Once you’ve laid the groundwork for salary negotiation, it’s time to shift the conversation to encompass total compensation. This includes considering various aspects such as signing bonuses, performance bonuses, additional vacation time, flexible work arrangements, professional development funds, or early salary review dates. It’s essential to approach this phase of negotiation with creativity and a clear understanding of your priorities and the value you bring to the role. Be prepared to discuss these elements confidently and assertively, ensuring that the overall compensation package aligns with your professional goals and reflects your worth to the organization.
Thank You
As you approach the conclusion of your final interview, it’s essential to express gratitude to the hiring team for the opportunity presented to you. Regardless of the initial offer, it’s important to convey appreciation for their consideration and the effort put into the negotiation process.
When the offer is extended, graciously thank them for the opportunity, even if the terms may not align perfectly with your expectations. Expressing gratitude sets a positive tone for the ongoing discussions and demonstrates your professionalism and respect for the employer’s time and effort.
The Final Point
As you approach the final interview, it’s crucial to be thoroughly prepared for the negotiation process. By anticipating potential scenarios and arming yourself with the necessary information, you can navigate the conversation with confidence and composure. Polite persistence and thorough preparation are key to ensuring that you are not caught off guard during the negotiation. This level of readiness empowers you to assertively advocate for a compensation package that aligns with your value and professional aspirations.
Remember, the final interview is your last opportunity to give the strong impression they need you that will help you negotiate a compensation package that reflects your value. By laying a strong foundation, delivering impactful statements, and transitioning to negotiating total compensation, you can confidently navigate the negotiation process and secure a favorable offer.
As you prepare for your final interview, remember to reinforce your worth with data and achievements, enhance the magic statement, and position yourself as an exceptional candidate. Embrace the opportunity to assertively advocate for a compensation package that aligns with your professional aspirations and demonstrates your exceptional value to the organization.
Express gratitude to the hiring team for the opportunity presented to you, and graciously thank them for the offer extended, regardless of whether it aligns perfectly with your expectations. Polite persistence and thorough preparation are key to ensuring that you are not caught off guard during the negotiation. Remember, the final interview is your chance to secure the compensation package you deserve, so approach it with confidence and composure.
Ⓒ The Big Game Hunter, Inc., Asheville, NC 2024
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