in jeopardy. You will need National and regional salary data Patience An asking price Convincing

arguments Confidence and potential compromises. Step 1. Find out what similar positions pay

both nationally and in your region by typing "salary comparison" into a search engine for

web sites that provide this information. Step 2. Wait to discuss salary until the interviewer

has indicated interest in offering you the job – otherwise, you risk alienating them

right off the bat. Step 3. Try to get them to tip their hand first by asking what the

position pays. Generally, the first person to name a number is the one who will be on

the losing end of the negotiation. Asking for the "salary range" gives you both some

wiggle room. Step 4. If they insist you give your salary requirements first, give them

the number you arrived at based on your experience, your salary history, and the research you've

done on the market value of similar positions in your region. Then add another 10 percent

for good measure. If your number is negotiable, say so. Step 5. Once they make a firm offer,

see if you can push it higher by offering a polite, cogent argument for why you are

worth more to them. Back up the argument with quantitative evidence relating to the business

you'll bring to the company, or how you'll save money by improving efficiency. Exude

confidence. If you enter the negotiation feeling like you don't deserve a higher salary, your

potential employer will know you aren't going to argue when they offer you less. Step 6.

After they counter your argument, remain quiet for a beat or two, as though you're pondering

what they've said. The ensuing – and uncomfortable – silence just might prompt them to cough

up some more dough. Step 7. They're not budging? Try to negotiate other perks, like more vacation

time. If they are asking you to take a significant pay cut, see if you can negotiate a four-day

work week or working from home. Did you know Women who consistently negotiate their salary

increases earn at least $1 million more throughout their careers than women who just accept what

is offered, according to one study.