Continuing Education

Some companies offer tuition reimbursement plans that pay part or all of the tuition expenses for employees completing an undergraduate or graduate degree. If you’re not looking for a new degree but think you would benefit from seminars, accreditation courses or workshops that relate to your field, then you may want to make the case for the company to cover the expense. Taking classes will not only benefit you, it  will benefit your employer when you apply your new knowledge and skill set to improving your performance.

Vacation Package

This may be a little trickier to negotiate, but worth a shot. Last year, the superintendent of our office building was given a bonus in the form of an all-expenses paid vacation with his family to Disney World.  He loved it, and it was quite a deal for his employer too. There are a ton of vacation packages out there, and they can be a much cheaper option for an employer while affording a valuable employee a much deserved break.  If you’ve had your eyes on a getaway to Cancun or wine country, offer that up as an alternative to a bonus or a raise.  In some instances, your boss may have so many frequent flier miles that they can “buy” you a ticket on their miles – so, no cash output from them and major value to you!

Monthly Expenses

Things like gym memberships and transportation reimbursements are also negotiable perks that can take some of the weight off you without being a huge burden to your employer. Some bosses will even agree to pay for lunch (we’re talking a sandwich – not filet mignon) if you remain at your desk and work through lunch instead of going out.   If you get other co-workers to back you up then you will be able to make a stronger case for these perks. Remember, though, this is a negotiation – not a coup!

Make sure you’re clear on what your priorities are and that you don’t come off as demanding.  Negotiating for perks in this economy is a delicate process – especially when there are hundreds of people waiting in the wings to take your job. While you may think you’re highly deserving of a raise, benefits and a promotion, and your boss may even agree, the final word is the state of the economy and how it is affecting your employer.  As with most things in life, how you say something is just as important (if not more) than what you are saying! Be sure to be respectful of your employer and make sure they know how grateful you are to have a job – with or without perks – in this economy!

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