Your negotiating strength is never stronger than at the moment when a company invites you to join their team. Many job seekers fail to prepare themselves for this final hurdle and may end up with less compensation than they are worth. This can be avoided by researching, practicing and expecting negotiations. Determine what compensation you will require by preparing a brief balance sheet of your assets and liabilities. Also, research current compensation packages within your specific career field. You can find salary information in the "Jobs Rated Almanac," (www.amazon.com/The-Jobs-Rated-Almanac-Best/dp/1511528850) the "American Almanac of Job Salaries" and the "Occupational Outlook Handbook" at www.bls.gov/ooh/. Never be the first to mention money. Your local Soldier for Life Center is available to assist you in developing a negotiation strategy and to answer questions.
For more veteran job news, listings and resources, visit the Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.
