Negotiating for Job Benefits and Other Non-Cash Options
Job benefits and other non-cash options are programs an employer uses to supplement the cash salary compensation that employees receive. Some benefits are legally mandated, such as Social Security and Workers’ compensation. Others are awarded at the discretion of the employer, such as health and life insurance, vacations, holidays, personal days, tuition assistance, automobiles, and professional group and club memberships.
In negotiating with a small company, you’re less likely to encounter fixed pay policies, permitting you to get creative about your compensation package.
You have a wide range of options for sweetening an offer. Ask for some combination of the following:
A company car
Stock options
Extra-generous mileage reimbursement
Parking privileges
Additional paid vacations
Dental plan
Tuition reimbursement
Recreational or daycare facilities
An expense account
An early salary review
If you’re negotiating for a job that pays below $30,000 and you know the company’s salary cap can’t be raised right now, try to get a shorter work week or flexible work hours, and take a second job to keep a roof over your head. If your spouse can cover you with health benefits, maybe you can trade health insurance for cash.
