In search of a new job you worked hard, wrote a perfect résumé, applied to thousands of jobs, distinguished yourself in the interviews and at least got an offer for the desired job. But don't hurry to sign a contract. If you think that offered salary is too low, it probably is.

Overwhelming majority of job offers provide applicants for a negotiating opportunity. If a candidate asks for a better offer, about 60 percents employers will extend a new offer once. If the company is really interested in the candidate, they will extend a new offer twice or more. And thirty percent of employers leave the first offer without any changes.

If a candidate makes an attempt to negotiate a better offer it shows his/her determination, perseverance and recognition of his/her opportunities to bring good to an employer.

You can negotiate a better job offer if you:

1. Confirm your value.
The best way to prove your worth is to spotlight specific accomplishments and results. Point out specific clients’ names and quantified results.

2. Have the highest references.
About one third of employers pay attention to candidate’s references in salary negotiations. So, make sure the former employers and co-workers on your reference list are prepared to give bright reports of your work. Provide them with an outline of your projects they're familiar with.

3. Know the market.
You should investigate the market and learn average salaries for your position.

4. Strengthen your position with care.
One of the most effective ways to negotiate is to show an offer from another company and a readiness to walk away. But it can also backfire cost you the job. So be very careful with this tactic.
5. Ask for a six-month review as the last tool.
You have been looking for a good high-paid job. At last you found one. But what to do if the employer doesn't want to give you the expected salary? Don't drop it at once; just inquire whether it will be reviewed in six months.

Negotiating a salary you should be careful as just one word can cost you thousands of dollars. If you agree to the first offer you get, it means you’ve given up and your employer will hardly go higher.
Experts advise applicants to postpone salary talk until the interviewer will realize their value for the company. If the employer really requires a professional like you, he’ll be ready to go over budget.

An interviewer may begin the negotiations by asking what salary you want or say what the job pays and ask your opinion about that. In such a case try to say something like: “Could we discuss it a little bit later after I learn more about the job?”
Your hesitation in responding gives the impression that you know your own worth and you haven’t been overwhelmed with the offer. So it’s worthwhile to respond indefinably by “Hmmm” or just repeat mentioned sum. 

Even if the interviewer mentions the sum you’ve expected for, make a pause and reflect a little. The answer may be the following: “This seams to be quite favourable matter, but before accepting it, I would like to consider...” Then you may discus your outlook for the future, when salary reviews typically are done and what you might expect your salary path to be.

If the salary suits you, you can say that researches confirm the offer is good one and you are inclined to accept it. If you have any doubts, say you need consider the offer overnight and call them back in the morning.