[MUSIC] One of the most exciting and possibly nerve wracking parts of the job search is the salary negotiation phase. [SOUND] You've found a job that you're excited about, and you want to feel good about the compensation. There are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to take part in salary negotiation. First, [SOUND] do you homework. There are hundreds of online resources that will allow you to find information on salaries based on the position as well as the industry. [SOUND] Salary.com is a good place to start. [SOUND] But a simple Google search can also get you solid information. Some things you might want to keep in mind are, [SOUND] before you can assess a specific job offer, you must make sure you have information about the market. Important information includes [SOUND] salary averages for your field, and in your geographic area of interest, average salaries that your peers received, norms in your field, such as where you can push a negotiation, and which things are not negotiable such as benefits or stock options. You can find this information in the Occupational Outlook Handbook or through your field specific professional networks. Identify and rank your values. This will help you remember an offer is not just about salary but about what you value in a position. The values may include location, independence, personal growth, low stress level, challenge, supervision, experience, variety, prestige, salary, making decisions, or a desire to help others among other values. [SOUND] The third step of preparation is [SOUND] making a budget. There's no point in accepting an offer if you think you'll be dissatisfied quickly and want to look for another job for financial reasons. If an employer refuses to meet or exceed your budget, it may be in your best interest to keep looking. During the negotiation process, [SOUND] there is a different set of questions to ask, because unlike when you're preparing, it is now time to put everything out on the table to come up with a complete picture of your compensation package. A few questions you might ask would be, what is the promotion potential? What are the benefits and when will I be reviewed and therefor considered for raises? Remember, salary is just one small piece of the small pie. Don't miss out on a wonderful opportunity because a 50 dollar a month after taxes pay difference. The amount you will be making in the new position, does not all appear on your paycheck. Consider the following benefits as well, health insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, maternity or paternity leave 401Ks, vacation and sick leave and when does that being, tuition reimbursement, childcare, flextime, telecommuting, and bonuses. [SOUND] So as you move into the salary negotiation phase as a job seeker, keep in mind that the employer wants you. Finding a mutually agreed upon compensation package is what everyone wants. Some employers don't have a lot of negotiation room and they'll articulate that. The best a job seeker can do is know their limits, know their worth And entry to the negotiation prepared. [MUSIC]