If you can’t negotiate salary, here’s 5 other things you can negotiate.

Negotiating a job offer is no less thrilling than a chess match. The stakes are high, the pressure is on, and your next move could make or break the game. 

But what if the salary isn’t up for discussion? 

Negotiation Beyond Salary

Negotiating salary is a crucial part of job hunting. But occasionally, the salary figures might be set in stone. 

But that doesn't mean you're out of moves. Salary is only one part of the negotiation game. There are other perks that can significantly enhance your job satisfaction.

5 Alternative Negotiation Options

Let’s look at other areas of negotiation, which are often overlooked but hold significant value. 

1. Flexible Working: Want to avoid rush hour? Negotiate for flexible working hours.

For many people the option to work from home or finishing the day early is worth more than the $$$. If this is you, negotiate this one hard. It doesn’t cost the company anything but it is worth a ton to you.

2. Start Date:  Need a breather before plunging into the new role? Negotiate your start date.

The best time off you’ll ever enjoy is the time off between jobs. No emails piling up, no boss phoning you up, no work stress occupying your mind. It really is the ONLY time you can fully switch off.

3. Vacation Days: Dreaming of an extended holiday? More vacation days could be your answer.

Life should not be all about work. And if you like the European approach of taking a long hot summer, then you are going to need more vacation days. This ‘costs’ the company on paper but can often feel like a much easier perk to negotiate than cold hard cash. Push for this!

4. Sign on bonus: Who doesn't like a warm welcome? A sign-on bonus can be a great incentive.

A Sign-On bonus is common in Tech and Banking, less so in other industries. But if the company you are working with does offer a Sign-On bonus, why not try to negotiate it higher? It wont put money in your pocket every month like an increase in salary but it definitely will make you feel good when you get your first pay check.

5. Early Salary Review: If you can't increase the salary now, why not arrange an early review?

If it’s a firm ‘no’ on more salary from Day One, I would definitely push for an early salary review - no later than 6 months in. I’d also negotiate the  KPI’s so you can show you have succeeded. Its not as rewarding as having the extra cash from Day One but it definitely beats waiting a whole year for a review.

The next time you get a job offer, remember, negotiating is not just about the salary. These alternatives can offer you a better work-life balance, a smoother transition into your new job, and even a financial boost. 

So, don't let a non-negotiable salary stop you. There's always another move.