Whether you're just beginning your career or a job hunting veteran, you can get a higher paying offer if you follow these tips.

1. Know what companies are paying by getting salary information from www.salary.com or www.payscale.com before the interview.
2. Choose a range of salary. If the job you want pays $42,000, put your request in the $40,000 to $45,000 range.
3. Don't be the first one in the interview to bring up money. When asked how much you expect to make, counter with, "What does the job pay?" If you don't get an answer, use the range. If you don't hear what you want, don't cave in or get demanding. Ask for a day or two to think it over. You get a chance to work out the economics, and the interviewer may take the time to make a better offer.

If you can't arrive at your desired salary, offer options. Maybe more vacation or a three or six month salary review.

Know what you want and firmly go after it.

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