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Four Tips for Negotiating Your Job Perks

Maybe you’re interested in taking a new job but not thrilled about the salary being offered. Maybe your company couldn’t afford to give raises or bonuses this year. Instead of focusing on the money, think about other benefits that might help make up for it—and know how to ask for them.

First, determine which of these factors mean more to you. Pick the top few that are most important to you and rank them in priority order, then negotiate for them in the same order.

Time. Who doesn’t need more time? An employer can’t add a 25th hour to the day, but they can help you make the most of the hours you do have. Think about asking for:

  • Flextime
  • A shorter work week (35 hours instead of 40, or a half day every Friday or Monday)
  • More vacation time (paid or unpaid)

Location. Would telecommuting help, even part of the time? Or, if your workspace is less than satisfactory, try asking for a different cubicle or office.

Upgrades. What might help you do your job better? Could you use a newer computer or different software? Or, if your spouse or domestic partner’s health insurance plan offers better options, consider declining that benefit and asking for a different perk instead, like:

  • Reimbursement for transportation costs, child care or school tuition
  • Paid professional development, such as work-related conferences and workshops, or membership in a professional association

Now that you know what you want, it’s time to go get it! While many of us are used to asking for more money, here’s how to negotiate asking for more perks:

Do your homework. Research the company and get a feel for what they’re currently capable of. If the last few annual reports show a decline or you know they’ve just lost a big deal, ask for the intangibles like telecommuting or flextime and not the new computer.

Timing. In most cases, the best time to negotiate is after you’ve been formally offered the job but haven’t yet accepted, at the conclusion of your trial period or just after you’ve been informed that you won’t be getting a cost of living raise this year.

Show Forethought. If you’re negotiating for a shorter work week or more vacation time, show how your work will be covered in your absence if necessary.

Focus on the Employer. Help make your case by showing how the perk will benefit the company. For example, if you want to attend industry seminars and conferences, offer to help your colleagues get up to speed on any new technology or new ideas you learn about.

One of the perks of being in the IT staffing business for so many years? We know which companies have great salaries and great perks. If you’d like to let us help you find and negotiate a great job, call or contact Triumph any time!

By Jason Williams: Partner, Triumph Services. As head of the Sales Division of Triumph, he has helped hundreds of clients find the best talent.