Negotiating your new salary

It's a delicate moment, you've been approached for a very attractive position. Now the company wants to make you an offer. All that remains is to agree salary and benefits. What is your opening move?

The way you handle this negotiation is critical to any new role and to your long-term career. Get it right and you will be respected as a professional who is able to balance the needs of individual and company. Alternatively, you risk starting on the wrong foot with your new employer or even jeopardising the offer.

Just as in day-to-day business life, you will know that the best negotiations depend on reaching an agreement that benefits everyone.

Be open and honest, right from the start, and clearly communicate your own expectations to both recruiter and client company.

Remember to be realistic and take into account market climate and "the going rate".