You've got your figures all lined up, your briefcase is packed, and you're ready to go face Ms. Employer and tell her what you want. Before you take the big step, glance over the following guidelines to be sure you get all you deserve from the transaction.

1. Deal with the real boss.
As early as possible in your interview process, find out who the final decision-maker is with regard to hiring, determining your job title, and authorizing your compensation agreement. Knowing who has the final say will help you develop a negotiating strategy for that manager; and hopefully you'll be able to speak directly with her in the final stages of your negotiation, if not before.

Salary /Job Search Coach