Job hunt/Etiquette question
 

Hi all,

like many, I'm job searching (this is for my first real job since doing co-op work in school), I've had an interview already, didn't get that job, got one job offer I couldn't take cause the commute was too far, and I have two more interviews this week (fingers crossed)

Well I have one today in 3 hours, and I was wondering, the posting listed $10/hour (real estate admin assistant) but I really think for the work they want that it should be a bit higher, my mom who is a retired real estate broker also suggested that for an assistant that is really low, because that person usually ends up taking all the crap from people and it is high stress (which I'm up for btw). I obviously know not to bring up pay in the interview, but if given an offer what is the appropriate way to ask if it is negotiable. Right now I'm working for $20/hour so it's a substantial pay decrease (my contract is ending) but at the end of the day I really need a job, oh and I think the work load will be similar. I'd be happy with $12/$13 if I can have sick days etc (as a co-op/contract student you do not get paid sick days and it is ridiculously hard to get time off).

Thoughts? Minimum wage here is $9.65. The reason I want to prepare for this before the interview is they called me within 2 hours of submitting my resume for an interview. So I could very well get an offer on the spot at which time I'll ask for 24 hours or at least until the next morning to think it over.

I personally think discussing pay is part of what is to be expected in an interview. We have potential employees ask about pay all the time. If they are really experienced, they simply say, "with my experience and expertise in this area, I was hoping to start out at 12-13/hour. Is that a possibility?" Or they say, "I NEED to be at 12-13/hour" and don't give us a choice. I don't think it sounds out of the question at all. If the candidate was the one we really want, we negotiate the pay to get them. They are going to start the position as low as they can, and keep in mind, they will get someone worth that, but if you are worth more, you may take it because you need the job, but you will continue looking because you are better qualified for more pay. This way, you are saying you are worth extra. It helps sell you.

I wouldn't bring up pay until an offer is on the table...
YOU might be surprised with a higher offer if you are a perfect candidate.

Those are both the things I've been considering... I think at this point it's smartest just to keep it out until I get an offer. While I don't want to get my hopes up I'm kind of expecting to get an offer quickly for this one, if they like me.

I grew up in a real estate environment with my mom, I know how to use the sites already, and I've got a load of office experience. Plus I'm considering becoming an agent/broker if law school doesn't pan out. But yeah I'm thinking if I sell myself well, it may turn out to be a better offer. I forgot about that option. :P It was just advertised on Kijiji so they probably weren't setting their expectations high..

Thanks... any last minute tips?

Well I got the job :D... wage wasn't negotiable. I just asked outright cause I got an offer on the spot. He did say that if I really help him grow his client base there would be room for bonuses. So I look at it this way, I'll give him 100% at this wage, and well if he wants to up my salary or give me an occasional bonus well then I'll give more than 100%.

Thanks guys... now I need to call and politely cancel my interview tomorrow.

Congrats! Hope you love it!!!

Thanks, me too.

Congratulations!