Negotiating More Money, Perks, Travel - What's Your Bottom Line?

Traditionally, compensation packages are a taboo topic until the offer stage, this is an idiotic practice which I have never understood.  Many recruiters are starting to ask about compensation expectations up-front, and you need to be prepared to answer.  You should know how much you are currently making and have made for the past few years.  You also need to be able to articulate your bottom line.  How much money do you need in order to take a new job?  Will you need benefits?  Do you want full-time or part-time work?  Will you accept more money for no benefits?  What's a deal breaker for you?

Research the company!  Look at the company’s website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.  Check Glassdoor.com and salary.com for more information on how the company treats employees and what people in your field are typically paid.

Negotiating your salary can be nerve-wracking, but you just need to be honest about what you want.  Asking for more than what you're currently earning is a given, but don't push your luck by asking for too much.  If you're getting paid hourly, then a few dollars more an hour is reasonable, in terms of annual pay, $5-10k give or take a few thousand.  Aim high, but be reasonable, and if the recruiter offers less than you're willing to accept, be honest and say that's too low for you, and name the lowest you could go.  The point is to be honest and respectful while standing your ground.

If the recruiter doesn't mention compensation, it's reasonable to bring it up on the phone screen, at least to ask for a pay range.  "I'm very interested in this opportunity and I'd like to make sure it's in line with what I need.  Do you mind telling me what the pay range is?"  Be prepared for the recruiter to turn the question back on you, and let them know what amount you're targeting and ask if that is something they can meet.

If money isn't the most important factor for you, and you really want benefits, or a flexible schedule, then ask about that and what the company offers.  There's absolutely no point in wasting your time and the recruiter's time if it's not a good fit.