auragin_boi Member since Aug 01st 2003 20939 posts
Thu Jun-14-18 01:29 PM
25. "Reasonable means affordable....As an HR professional...sometimes" In response to In response to 0 Thu Jun-14-18 01:31 PM by auragin_boi
I think people overthink this stuff.
We have a range. If you fall above that range you're typically out unless we REALLY need you, then we'll pay above range. But ultimately, we don't offer below preference as it increases the chance for buyers remorse.
If you fall below that range, a good HR department will pay you bottom of the range (which would still be a raise on your expectations). This keeps the role competitive and makes the numbers look reasonable when comp evaluations happen/go to market. This prevents having to give you too much of a raise when we see your salary is below market since you're now more valuable to the company with more experience which might open up more risk to lose you to a competitive offer.
Also, giving someone more than they ask for is endearing (or should be) and helps with retention.
A more murky HR department will give you what you ask for (though it's below market) and point at it to upper management for brownie points. But that's counterproductive IMO because long term it could cause problems that out price the initial savings on salary (morale, turnover, competition). Granted 'what they don't know won't hurt 'em' but we are in the info age. People can find out what's competitive and headhunters flirt all the time.
All this to say...ask for what you want and if a company balks at it, move along to one that will give you what you want. No need to waste time wondering if you could have gotten more either. Get what you want and if you want more later, prove your worth and make a strong case for it or move on for an opportunity that provides it.