By Aurea Crotty

Negotiation is an integral part of our personal and professional lives. At some point we will all need to negotiate a salary, buying a new home, a car, cell phone etc… Being able to negotiate successfully can make a big difference to our outcomes.

Taking time to hone your negotiating skills is time worth while.

Tips

1. Set your mind to it!

Negotiation takes work, and you have to want to do it! Talking about money is a touchy subject and can be very uncomfortable for many of us. If you are unwilling to talk about money and engage in negotiation, your reluctance will come at a price.

2. It’s not personal -never get emotionally involved -easier said than done…I KNOW!

A big mistake many of us make is to become too emotionally invested in our end goal. We allow our emotions and ego to get the better of us causing us to lose focus.

Remember, there is someone else in the picture and both of you want to feel that you are getting something out of the deal! Be friendly and patient (even if the other person is not).

3. First the worst, Second the BEST! -try not to be the first person to name a price!

By being the first to set your price, you maybe putting yourself at a disadvantage.

4. Ask for more than you expect to get -but be reasonable!
Even if the price is right ask if they can do better. Be nice, be reasonable. Remember, you never know unless you ask!

5. Create a WIN / WIN situation

When you look to create a win/win situation, everyone at the negotiating table feels they got something out of it! If someone feels cheated they may not be inclined to fulfill their end of the deal, or not want to do business with you in the future.

Have a negotiating tip or question? Post here.

By Aurea Crotty

You can’t handle the three walls of your cubicle any longer and you’ve had just about enough of your boss’s antics! You know you’re worth more and can be more -it’s time to set sail and move on!

Move on, but be smart! You’ve waited for this day for a long time, and nothing would give you more pleasure than to FINALLY give your boss a piece of your mind.

Quitting your job, especially if you’re leaving a particularly difficult environment, can feel like your final justice, the moment where you can finally “stick it to the man” Ahh sweet vengeance!

But wait, what you may not have considered is how your employer maybe an asset to you. The world today is very small and you never know where you may run into someone again. Perhaps it is worth a second calming breadth and Zen attitude to reflect on the best course of action leaving your emotions out of it!

Emotions run high when the tides of change are upon you, quitting your job and transitioning to the next can be a time of excitement, stress and worry. With all that emotion swimming in your head, trying to stay focused can be next to impossible.

Here are some tips to help you resign with professionalism and poise.

• Plan A Not Working so Well? Time to Get Crackin’ on Plan B

Unless you’re leaving your job due to an unforeseen personal circumstance, be sure your plan B is in solid working order. Get your resume updated, your feelers out there and network working for you. Line up your interviews before and after work -or even during lunch.

• Land the Job!

Be a smart cookie and don’t react with just a job offer in hand…make sure you sign it and confirm your new position before making any moves.

• This Message Will Self Destruct in 5 Seconds…

Backup, delete, and remove all personal files. Start taking your personal belongings home. If anyone asks, tell them you’re clearing clutter or getting rid of distractions.

• Keep it on the down-low!

The last thing you want is office gossip that you’re on the outs! If your plan B isn’t yet solid and you’ve got a leak, things could really blow up in your face! Be professional, and don’t blow your cover.

• Write a Resignation Letter - KISSP style.

Keep is Short, Sweet, and Positive. You don’t need to explain the details on why you’re leaving. Here are some samples.  Even if you loath the company, be professional, and Smart!! – say something positive about the company, give them two weeks.

• Ask for a Reference

Even if you were not a model employee, it is always a good idea to ask for reference.

• Final Curtain Call…Take a bow!

Be professional -don’t burn bridges. Once you’ve given your employer the boot, this is not an excuse for you to come in late and let loose letting everyone know what you really think. On your last day, you may want to consider a thoughtful e-mail (even if you don’t really mean it), wishing everyone luck with their future endeavors, and perhaps your contact details.

It’s done, now relax! Enjoy your adventure and your next steps towards a better life.

Have a tip to share a funny story about quitting your job? Post Here