HIRE ME: How to negotiate

St. Petersburg, Florida - At many companies, the end of the year is when the hiring process begins because new budgets start in January.  Even in this economy, it's possible to negotiate for the salary and benefits (or the raise) that you want.

In fact, the holidays can be a great time to make your job search phone calls.

The day after Thanksgiving is one of the days of the year when you're most likely to get someone to pick up the phone, said Kelley Rexroad, job coach and founder of krexconsulting.

First, don't bring up money first.  Let the employer bring it up, and even then, don't fall into the trap of giving them a number.  Ask the employer for the salary range for the job, and negotiate from there.

For example, in the job interview, let's say an employer tells you the range is $35,000 to $45,000 a year.  When you sit down for negotiations, you're offered $37,000 a year.

Here is a good way to respond: "We discussed a range of $35,000 to $45,000 a year, so I'm a bit surprised at your offer of $37,000.  My qualifications exceed the requirements you're looking for.  Can you help me understand that?"

In this case, even the median of the job range would be $40,000.

There are also job salary calculators that can help determine expected salaries by job type, but they shouldn't be solely relied on.

If employers still won't budge on salary, there are plenty of other things that can be negotiated.

Ask if the company provides a laptop, pays for uniforms, offers flexible schedules, offers an entertainment budget or pays a car allowances.

"Anything that basically may be part of the business is up for negotiations," said Robert Meier, director of workforce talent liaisons for Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance.

Remember, confidence is key.  Despite an abundant job pool, six in 10 employers are willing to negotiate higher compensation with candidates who are qualified.

This can also help those who are currently employed.  In fact, 40 percent of hiring managers say that when the economy improves, giving pay raises will be their primary method of retaining top performers.