TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Re: Ancient Codes: Make them gasp (was: salary first )
Subject:Re: Ancient Codes: Make them gasp (was: salary first ) From:John Gilger <jgilger_it -at- NV -dot- DOE -dot- GOV> Date:Wed, 14 Apr 1999 07:44:32 -0700
Finally! A voice of reason on this thread. It is amazing that people
are so afraid of negotiating their compensation. The only reason that I
spend any of my time working is to generate funds to support the things
I want to do in life.
John
Andrew Plato wrote:
I am going to reveal an ancient negotiation proverb (salaries
and rates
especially). This was handed to me from my father by way of my
grandfather.
"Make them gasp."
- Paul C. Plato
What does that mean? It means the answer to all negotiations is
to make the
other party gasp when they hear your rate/salary. If you think
$65,000 a year
is fair, tell them you want $80,000. Make your offer outrageous
enough to throw
them off balance.
I am not saying you'll get it, but it sends a clear message to
the other party:
you're in this to win.