Rank: Member Groups: Member
Joined: 1/5/2008 Posts: 23 Points: 69
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I am about to interview for a branch manager position. I am working for this particular library system as an assistant branch manager. My current salary is just about the starting salary for the branch manager position.
Can I ask what the starting salary would be for me? I would want to start at somewhat more than what I'm making now--not just a little more. It's a public library (with of course, public library salaray) and for the stuff I deal with on a daily basis (acting as manager, when the official branch manager is unavailable), a tiny increase would not be worth it.
Any ideas? Thanks a bunch!
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 Rank: Advanced Member Groups: Member
, Negotiation - Moderator
Joined: 1/31/2008 Posts: 61 Points: 189 Location: Oregon
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great question. First, keep in mind that salary is rarely discussed in an interview, and only if they bring it up first. Rather, the appropriate time is after you are offered the position. At that point, you will have leverage to negotiate, since it's the clear they want you. The best thing to remember is that their first offer, or the start of the range, is just that, a starting point. Some places have specific step levels, some have a set starting wage, some are vey open to negotiate. It's you job to understand the institutional parameters within which the hiring manager must work, and how much flexibility they have. Also remember money isn't everything and you might be able to negotiate vacation time, moving expenses, conference and continuing ed support, etc. Use this process as a litmus test for what it will be like to work with the people and policies of this library. How your new boss handles the hiring process provides a lot of insight about what it will be like to work with that person. Nothing is final until you get a signed offer letter, including a salary.
I just reread your message. Are you applying for a job in the same library system where you work now? If so, maybe you already know some of the policies and politics.
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Rank: Member Groups: Member
Joined: 1/5/2008 Posts: 23 Points: 69
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Thanks! Especially for reminding me not to mention salary in the interview. While I felt very good about applying (it would be for the manager position at the branch where I am assistant) initially, I am not at all sure I will be promoted, despite my years (nearly 2) of experience (and specific to this branch and being in charge during some times of crisis). So I am preparing myself for a rocking and positive interview no matter what.
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