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Negotiation Quiz: Do You Have the Skills to Get What You Want?

By: Taunee Besson, CMF, CareerCast.com Senior Columnist

When you want a raise or promotion, a new computer system, a vacation during a very busy month, or a company-paid MBA, do you:

By: Paul A. Greenberg

Of all the anxiety-inducing elements of a job interview, answering questions about salary is often at the top of the list for many job seekers. The key to answering salary questions in a job interview with a potential employer is to be prepared. Preparation includes finding out what the job type usually pays, and determining your own worth in the marketplace.

Instead of telling you directly what the job pays, many interviewers will ask you what salary you are expecting if you were hired. If you are working out the details with a new employer in your interview, it is critical that you can answer salary questions from a position of strength. That means you must do your job search homework and determine an average salary for the position in your geographical area. The salary in New Orleans may not be comparable to the same position in New York City, or in a much smaller market.

By: Taunee Besson, CMF, CareerCast.com Senior Columnist

"The first time I decided to leave my job, the main reason was to get a higher salary," says a New York web developer. "But then my company entered into a negotiation and made me a counteroffer of more money, which prompted me to stay. When I decided to leave that job for the second time, however, having a better work environment was more important to me than a higher salary.

By: Joe Light

A tight job market may have made it more difficult for job seekers when it comes to negotiating salary, but that doesn't mean they should roll over and accept the first offer, says New York-based executive coach Rabia de Lande Long. If you've recent gotten a job offer and want to try negotiating for a higher salary without putting a sour taste in your potential employer's mouth, follow these steps to increase your chances of success:

Do your research.

It used to be hard to find out what your coworkers and other professionals in your industry get paid. But now, several resources are available for salary research, says Ms. de Lande Long. Payscale.com has a list salary ranges to expect based on a job seeker's position, location, and experience. When negotiating for a higher salary, having extensive background information is vital.

By: Taunee Besson, CMF, CareerCast.com Senior Columnist

Jan has been job hunting for several months, ever since a bank merger resulted in her getting laid off. Recently she received a job offer from a tech firm, and she really likes the job description, the people, the corporate culture and the opportunities for growth. The only problem is the salary. The company is offering $12,000 less than she thinks she deserves.

By: Taunee Besson, CMF, CareerCast.com Senior Columnist

Q: I'm in my early 40's. I spent the first few years of my career in various technical positions and eventually, through job changes, progressed to middle management. While nothing is wrong with my current job, and in this economy I feel lucky to be employed, I have absolutely no opportunity for advancement.