Finding that right job can be a challenge. Navigating the interview process can be frustrating. Getting that offer is a great feeling.

Now it is time to NEGOTIATE. It may be hard to believe, but 61% of job seekers take the initial offer according to Robert Half. For many, after a tough job search, an offer is all they want.

There is little loyalty in the relationship between employers and employees. The average person changes jobs 12 times according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you choose to not negotiate your initial job offers you will be leaving money on the table.

Remember, benefits can vary by company. Health & Life Insurance, 401K, Disability & Vacation are the most common. Prioritize what is important to you and see if they will budge. Typically, vacation has the most flexibility.

My clients have heard from me to ALWAYS negotiate. The first offer is not the employer’s best. Typically, I recommend asking for 10% more and if necessary, meet in the middle at 5%. Also, if they offer the typical two weeks of vacation ask for three or four. Monster.com stated that vacation is negotiated 54% of the time.

These are reasonable counteroffer requests and you should not feel bad asking. You never know unless you try.

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