Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview?: A Crash Course in Finding, Landing, and Keeping Your First Real Job (43 page)

What health and retirement plans are available to you. Might you be eligible for a premium plan if your salary is not negotiable? Can dental or optical coverage be added? Can the deductible be lowered?

Does the company offer performance bonuses?

Does the company offer overtime?

How often will you be reviewed? What is the review process?

The start date for the position.

What will your duties be?

Apart from performance-based raises, are there standard annual cost-of-living adjustments?

What retirement benefits does the company offer? Is there a 401(k)?

Are transportation vouchers available?

Other benefits to be aware of: paid personal days, sick days, and holidays; life insurance and disability plans; worker’s compensation (for on-the-job injuries); paid and unpaid leaves of absence; relocation expenses; and matching funds for charitable contributions.

T
HESE NEGOTIATION POINTS ARE LESS APPLICABLE
for entry-level jobs or jobs in the nonprofit or public sector, and some are perks rather than benefits:

Will the company pay for your laptop/BlackBerry/cell phone/home Internet access/car/car service/parking?

Is telecommuting a possibility?

Are there opportunities for professional development? Will the company pay for classes, degree programs, training seminars? If the company will pay for a master’s degree and you already have one, can that be translated into another benefit?

Will you receive a corporate credit card and travel and entertainment budget?