How do I negotiate for more money?

Question

I got a really good job through a temp agency recently, but I feel like I'm being shorted money.

The job is a position as a bilingual English/Spanish inside sales representative for a chilean lumber company in the U.S. The position at first glance seems pretty simple and straight forward, you know, basic order entry and account reconciliation, but it's not. It's highly involved and requires someone who not only can think really quickly, but can communicate professionally in English and Spanish because I'm dealing with business professionals in Latin American.
The agency told me the pay range would be starting at, at least $16/hr., but they are paying $13/hr for the job. I need to know how to get them to increase my pay to where it should be because of the heavy work load and specialized skill required for the job. The lack of money would severely affect my job performance and without it I don't know if I can do well so I can get a permanent job there in the future.

Thanks Chris.

I think the company actually paid the agency well. When the agency first offered the assignment to me they told me the pay would be starting at $16, but then switched it to $13. I think they just decided to pay me less and keep the rest for themselves.

However, the job is really specialized, not your average temp gig and though I'm sure they are basing my wage on what other temps are making at the same company they aren't, IMHO, taking into consideration the actual job requirements which exceed what others are required to do. I will flat out ask and detail my work to them and see how it goes though. Thanks again.

Answer 1

I disagree a little with the other posters. Now that you have been there a while, you can go back to the agency and express that you were really expecting $16.00. Ask them if they could ask the company to increase your rate a little. $16 sounds fair to me.

Be humble about it, and explain how you need to make ends meet,a nd you really like working there, and are just hoping for this increase. If you actually are doing a great job, they may do it. (I have been on the company side of this and increased the $$ for the person who came right out and had the agency ask me.) She, of course, was a great temp, who we didn't want to lose. Good luck!

Answer 2

If there are other opportunities, check them out.
First, emphasize your qualifications, any work history, punctuality, attention to detail, cognizance of the importance of communication in the language.
Just say that you feel that the salary you expected is more commensurate with your commitment to the position.

If the answer is flat no, then ask if you can expect a review of you performance in a firm time line, with consideration for an increase. Three months, six?
All you can do, or walk.

It's like a test. "Hmmm, wonder how cheap I can hire her?"

Good Luck

Answer 3

ok 2 things you can do
search for other companies that do the same job you guys do and ask them if they are hiring, as you say you have good experience. DOn't go to the agency that hired you, tell the actual company, if you are a good asset they will direct hire you and bye bye agency. those are they ways you can get more pay.