From the Expert: Is negotiating your civilian compensation package a power struggle? A tug of war? Or maybe a mind game?

Actually, it’s none of those – rather, it’s just an OPPORTUNITY to address gaps between the offer made and what you’d like to have, and to identify ways for you and prospective employer to resolve them.

Before you even begin applying for positions, you should do your homework and be prepared for the salary and benefits negotiations process. Consider these tips:

• Start with a self-assessment.
• Research salaries and benefits for jobs and employers of interest.
• Determine an overall compensation package aligned with your economic motivation and unique value proposition.