Working World

Here’s a key question about whether a job is right for you: What does it pay? Different companies have different styles of compensation, and you need to understand how and why. 

Set salaries. These can be small operations where community practices mean nothing and employers pay what you are worth to them — something they determine long before you apply. Entry-level jobs at large companies may also fall into this category.

Pay grades. What quickly come to mind here are civil service jobs, city employment, hospital jobs, law enforcement positions and the military. Experience and years on the job determine rates, and you must work up the ladder for any increases. Generally, there is no negotiation, but you know that the pay of fellow employees is similar.

Negotiable. These are often higher paying positions that also require the most research beforehand. You must know what you are worth and be prepared to present your case clearly. Here is an area where your salary proposal rather than your salary demand might mean the difference between a “yes” and a “no.”

Never forget the value of benefits. They frequently amount to a full third of your compensation. Full health coverage is very different from partial, and matching retirement plans can really add up over the years.