Perk up that salary

You’ve been offered a great job! But, now you need to negotiate the salary.

Before you begin, understand that you can get creative with your compensation package and still come out on top. In other words, don’t just consider the amount of money you are being offered.{{more}} While the trend may not seem common yet in the Caribbean, many employers elsewhere have had to start thinking outside “the box” because they can’t compete by offering large salaries alone to attract the best talent. They can still compete, however, by offering other, alternative options.

You, as the prospective employee, should not be shy about asking if any perks are available. Even if the answer is no, you’ve asked and you won’t find out too late that you missed an opportunity.

So, what kinds of perks can be as good as cash?

1. Tuition reimbursement. Many companies offer their employees the opportunity to go to school while employed. The company pays at least part of the bill as long as the employee maintains a certain grade point average. What could be better than free education?

2. A company car. Gas is very expensive, and the wear and tear on your vehicle could cost you quite a bit annually. If you have the option to obtain a company vehicle as part of your package or if the company is willing to offer a travel allowance if you use your own vehicle, say yes!

3. Room for advancement. Before you accept any offer, ask if the company offers room for advancement and growth. Its okay to start in the mail room or as a clerk if the company is serious about recognizing and rewarding people who are smart, eager, and willing to learn.

4. Tech equipment. Having access to recent technology, like laptops and cell phones, is very important to some people, both personally and professionally. The company might not pay that well, but if it purchases and encourages use of the latest gadgets, even experimenting with them at home, the opportunity can be long term.

5. Opportunities to travel. If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, then the chance to travel might appeal to you. If you have no family or you have flexibility with your family situation, the opportunities might be extraordinary. It’s not even unusual for organizations to encourage employees to take extra time before or after a business trip so they can sightsee.

Many other perks, such as pension plans, profit sharing, bonuses, opportunities to telecommute, gym memberships, and paid insurance plans, might be negotiable. Don’t limit yourself by asking for a hefty monetary package right off the bat.

Ask for a few perks, too, and increase the value of your compensation.

Karen Hinds President/CEO – Workplace Success Group,
Toll Free: 1-877-902-2775; Tel: 1-203-757-4103
Karen@WorkplaceSuccess.com
www.WorkplaceSuccess.com
Creator of The Workplace Success Program (TM)