Negotiate as the CEO of ME, Inc.

Negotiations are unique to each individual and to each individual client engagement. For every negotiation you undertake, maintain a CEO's mindset with clarity and purpose as your goals.

Ask yourself if this is a short-term gig or a long-term engagement. The answer is directly tied to the financial status of ME, Inc. Remember that this is a critical matter to your Personal Board of Directors. Depending on the situation (if you're currently unemployed your compensation is zero) you may have to settle for a client on a short-term basis while you continue to look for better, mid-and long-term opportunities.

Other points to remember about negotiations:

• This is a business to business discussion. You are a CEO so act accordingly.
• You are on equal footing with the client — provided you have a service the client is looking to engage.
• It's all about negotiating the details.
• Depending on the level of mutual interest, every offer has some wiggle room.
• Always ask “Is this your best offer?”
• Never say "no". Instead, offer a counterproposal that you are prepared to accept.

You can do it … I know you can!!!

Best wishes and keep networking alive,

Coach Rod

The Objective of the Interview

In every interview, try to give the interviewer a picture of your personal attributes as well as your experience, skills, and other job qualifications. Make your verbal and nonverbal messages positive, incorporating posture, facial expressions, and voice qualities that convey competence, friendliness, energy, and enthusiasm. This helps the interviewer feel comfortable and creates an open tone, which improves the chance for a successful interview. An open tone helps both you are the interviewer relax and improves the natural flow of conversation. When under less tension, you can better communicate the information necessary for a good interview.

Own the Job Description
If you can truly claim “ownership” of the job description, you're in an unbeatable position to navigate the interview. In fact it’s a sure thing since you're already intimately familiar with every detail that could possibly emerge as a talking point.

Think of it as curveball insurance: If the interviewer attempts to throw you a curveball with some obscure reference to responsibilities or skills, you can respond with confidence and poise to demonstrate your unbelievable mastery of the position’s unique requirements. Believe me, this makes a powerful impression!

Happy Valentine’s Day and keep networking alive,

Coach Rod