☛ Determine the market rate salary range for this type of position in this particular Industry.

☛ Prepare a budget to determine your financial needs.

☛ Decide, before you go into an interview, what salary you want to earn, what you need to live on, and what you will be willing to settle for.

☛ Be realistic: entry-level salaries are less negotiable than salaries for mid-level or executive positions.

☛ Practice your salary negotiation skills with a friend, or during a CSC videotaped mock interview session.

☛ Document your skills and accomplishments, and be prepared to talk about them. Know why you're worth whatever you expect to be paid !

☛ Don't be the first to mention salary during the interview, and use the negotiating tips listed below when the topic does come up.

☛ Never say, "I need at least ___ dollars."

☛ Don't worry about what your friends are making, the employer certainly isn't.

☛ Never lie about your salary history.

☛ Relax, it's natural to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing salary.

☛ Once you have accepted a job offer and salary level, be sure to get it in writing.