What would you want to be paid?

What can you offer this organization?

Over the years I have watched job prospectors stutter and shift like a thief recently exposed at a market place when asked either or both these questions.

It’s a two-fold problem…

Firstly,

How do I price myself?

Do I underprice to get the Job or overprice to sell my importance?

I do not believe that in recruitment and selection there is a one-size fit all answer to this question.

I know this because I have kicked myself over and over again after an interview, when I was offered the job only to realize I underpriced by over 100,000 naira!!!.

I had not done my homework. Thankfully the difference was adjusted a little after a few months of backbreaking work to show what I had to offer.

After one of my speaking engagements one of the participants came to me saying she didn’t know why she never gets the job citing a possibility she was always overqualified for the job.

This may very well be. Which leads me to question why do you apply for a job you are over qualified for?

I know I know there are no jobs out there and you take what you get right? Further probing revealed she often priced herself way higher than the company’s could afford for a new staff.

What is the value I place on my self and my ability to deliver within an organization?

Being the best graduating student in your class does not often scream employee of the month. Especially if you studied in a theory oriented garbage in garbage out university system.

When you decide to go job hunting especially for that very first job be aware that that the interviewer(s)/ organization is taking a chance on you and hoping her investment will pay off.

Before you place a value on yourself

1. Understand the organization you are applying to
2. Understand the position you are applying for
3. Make discrete enquiries about the company’s hiring policies
4. Understand the industry and the general rates paid for someone in your position
5. Weigh in your skills as it relates to the job
6. Understand what leverage you have in terms of client base and business you will be attracting

Then put a value on your services.

There are very well paying jobs available for fresh graduates however, what you need is experience and not the money first. Be careful when you place a price on your services.

What can you offer this organization?

The first answer that comes to mind is:’ I will work hard and do my absolute best. Right?

You will only get this job if the company just needs to fill a space temporarily.

Work hard is as generic as generic goes and this doesn’t show you have prepared for the interview.

Understanding your JD and pitching a direct correlation to improving the company’s bottom line will earn you a proper listen and respect from the interviewer.

A company that produces hair care products for example requires the services of a marketer.

You do not go in for the interview without learning about the product reach, USP and target. This will help you offer ideas that make you appear smart and capable.

Showing the interviewer you understand the various products sold and the target and the company reach makes you a better candidate for the job.

Remember that your interviewer is looking for value based pricing.

Ajibosin Tessy