Last week we caught up with Vince who was the subject of a story about how the market has affected his job search. He is just starting a position but in his eagerness to accept the offer, did not ask for a sign-on bonus nor consider what this transition might cost him. In this downturn, a job seeker must pay more attention to the job hunting and offer process than ever. Before putting one toe in the market, be fully prepared to respond to an offer. That means doing hours upon hours of advance preparation so that the process moves along as quickly as possible.
Speed is an advantage.
If the company is interested in you today, don't give them a chance to find other candidates while you take time to do your homework. Look at earnings levels over the past few years. Be prepared to give high and low figures if there are variables. Explain that and give the employer an idea of the range you had in mind. Note that, since your current employer may counter by immediately giving you the raise you would have gotten in a few weeks.