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Salary negotiation can be a stressful event, but it's an important part of any hiring interview. Here are some tips to make sure you're satisfied in the end.

First of all, salary negotiation is a business transaction. Many times before a meeting, I've felt apprehensive about appearing greedy by asking for too much, and souring my future boss's impression of me. It's important to remember, though, that this will not be an issue. If he (or she) is any kind of good boss, they'll know that it is a business conversation, and there'll be no hard feelings no matter what kind of figure you ask for. (Can't guarantee the boss won't laugh, though)

It's important to get as high a salary as possible right away, because many companies reward their employees over time with raises, but they're usually percentage-based, so the higher your initial salary, the better your raises will be. And with the cost-of-living increasing, it's a good idea to get every cent you can.

And when it comes to actually agreeing on a figure, a good rule of thumb is this: whoever says a number first, loses. Get the hiring manager to specify a number. Then, you'll have the power to say yes and sign, or to say no and ask for more. If you're the one who mentions a number first, then you've given the company all the power, especially if it's too low. If the manager asks you what number you had in mind, turn the question back on him noncomittally. Say something like, "Well, I can't give you an exact number right now. If you'll tell me how much the company has budgeted for new employees, then we can work from there."

And finally, when the time comes to say "no," don't panic. If you've done your research (and you should always do your research) then you'll know exactly what the market rate is for that job. If it's too low, then just say that it's too low. If they press as to why it's too low, then tell them about the market value, tell them about student loans, tell them whatever you can think of to try to get that number higher. It's one uncomfortable conversation that's going to have years of ramifications.

And if you're really daring, pretend you've gotten a better offer from another company, and ask them to match. It worked for A-Rod.

Learn more about this author, Colby Cannon.
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