Don't overlook salary talks in an interview, whether it's for a part-time or full-time job. Employers often value candidates who aim for a good salary. High-earning candidates are also recognized as skilled, proactive, and more successful."

To get the pay you want, think differently. It’s not only about you and what you want. You are helping your new boss reach team goals and make the company better.

Next time you discuss salary, keep in mind these important tips about what not to do:

1. When You’re Offered the Job: When you have a job offer, you have the most power. The company wants you, and they might be willing to negotiate some parts of your compensation.

2. Don’t Focus Only on Money: Getting the salary you want is important. But don't forget to ask for other benefits like more vacation days or flexible work hours. It would be awkward if later you find out a coworker got two extra weeks of vacation or can work from home.

3. Don’t Guess the Salary: Do your research on the job you're applying for. Check if there are bonuses for your experience level. If you ask for too much, it might seem like you don't know the industry standards..

Also, don’t forget to learn about the company’s salary philosophy. Your boss may offer competitive pay, especially if they’re trying to hire experienced talent in a “hot” area. Or they might offer lower pay but with performance-based incentives. Ask the hiring manager to understand the company’s pay strategy better.

4. Don’t Negotiate Against Yourself: Wait until you have a written offer or at least a clear proposal. Don’t start asking for things before the company even makes an offer. And don’t respond to just part of a verbal offer (e.g., “What do you think about salary X?”).

5. Think Long-Term: Negotiate your way through the process. The average job tenure is short, about four years, and it could be even less for younger professionals. So, be careful about what you agree to in the negotiation: Don’t accept less pay or incentives if you think it will hurt your career later. If things get tricky, consider consulting a lawyer.

Now you know the facts. Ask for what you deserve. Say clearly how you will help the company reach its goals. A value-based mindset will help you avoid undervaluing yourself. Without it, you might come across as arrogant or greedy.

6. When You Have the Job: The conversation about money is ongoing, not a one-time task. Stay focused on your goals and performance. Define what success looks like to you, so your regular check-ins become natural opportunities to ask for more money.

One way to stay focused is to adopt the M.O.R.E. mindset:

• Meet your boss in person.

• Own your performance goals and how you contribute to team success.

• Research your value in the market.

• Envision your end game: a better, more challenging job with new growth opportunities.

Not many people do this well. Here’s what not to do:

7. Don’t Be Defensive: You and your boss are on the same team. If you complain about your salary and do just enough work, you might make things worse. This can make you and your boss seem like you are against each other.

8. Don’t Wait Too Long: If you will stay in this job for two years, ask your boss to meet with you often. Do this soon. Don’t wait for your annual performance review. Eventually, you’ll miss those performance goals, and your boss might be the one to start the money conversation.

Remember, there’s nothing wrong with asking for a higher salary. Just keep in mind that more money isn’t just a request. You need to know how to ask and how to deliver on what you promise.