Maybe the offer has enticements that can help make up the salary difference. Also, know what you're worth. In addition, learn what you can about the company, our experts say. It may have a reputation for low-balling on all first offers. In fact, approach the offer assuming it's low, says Sheila Wellington, president of Catalyst, a businesswoman's advocacy organization, and author of Be Your Own Mentor .
Research shows that women tend to accept or reject offers outright, according to Wellington.
You need to learn to play like men, and that means joining the negotiating game. Here are some ways to improve your haggling techniques. For one thing, be aware of trends in compensation, Wegerbauer says. Today, for example, bonuses have replaced stock options as the hot addition to base salary. Depending on your circumstances, you may also want to bring nonfinancial considerations to the table, says Poore.