So, you have been working for the same company or organization for some time. You have not received a raise and you know you are worth more than what you make. What should you do? You may want to think about some negotiation tips that you can implement to help you out.

Negotiation tactics can be very helpful if you are using them appropriately. In fact, your employer probably uses negotiation tricks from time to time when they are doing business. The more you use them the better you will become. If you want a higher pay then you can always start with this negotiation tip.

Try to let your employer know that you are looking at other job offers. You should never reveal any salary information when you do this. You should also avoid this bargaining trick if you do not have any other jobs in the wing. But, if you do have some other offers you may want to discuss this with your employer. Let him or her know that you would like to stay where you are but you would like some incentives to make that decision.

Always do your research before you try to employ any negotiation tactics. It is very important to be able to go to your employer with facts. If you are underpaid then you can discuss this. Keep in mind that you need to have facts from your area and you should have facts that are reputable. This is often very easy to find if you spend a little bit of time on the internet.

Another negotiation trick that you can try would be related to other compensation packages that your current employer may be able to offer you. If you are not confident that your employer is able to give you a raise in your salary then you should identify a few other bonuses or compensation methods that would make your stay more comfortable.

You have to know how to negotiate if you want any efforts on your part to be successful. Never try to sound condescending or as if you do not need your job. Simply state the facts and know how to play the game. You have to remember that, most likely, the reason your boss is in his or her position is because they have some questionable negotiation tricks up their sleeve. Therefore, you have to know what you are doing if you want to be successful.

In the end, you should never be afraid to ask for what you want. Just make sure that you are stating it appropriately with the facts to back yourself up. Always stop and listen to what your employer is saying to you. You may learn something that will help you improve your negotiation tactics if you stop talking and listen.

Good luck!

Martin Collins

Are you seeking the perfect present for the pet or pet lover in your life?

With the holidays just around the corner now is the time to start your shopping so you can beat the rush and allow time for shipping (without those priority charges) as well!

If you’re ready to begin your search for the ultimate pet-themed gifts, read on for some helpful hints and suggestions.

Pet Pleasers

(Dog and Cat Gifts)

Chewies and Other Fun Toys: Since all dogs love to chew (and chew and chew and chew), a new chew-toy is a sure pleaser. When choosing which “chewy” or tug toy to buy, remember that dogs, like children, can choke on small parts and pieces. Keep in mind too that stuffed animals are not an ideal gift for dogs as ingesting the fur and stuffing can cause choking hazards as well.

One more note on toys: If you don’t mind being responsible for buying that “annoying” gift, dogs really enjoy squeaky model chew toys! Just remember, you’ve been warned because when his or her owners are trying to hear the television over that incessant “SQUEAKING,” chances are they’ll think of you!

Natural Dogs: If you’re buying for the environmentally conscience, health-minded dog, there are some really great organic toy options made from products like hemp and canvas.

Treats: Just like they love to chew ‘things,” dogs also love to chew TREATS! Those scrumptious goodies come in a huge variety from fresh-baked products offered at gourmet “barkeries” (bakeries), to barbecued meaty bones found at the big pet stores.

Again, look at the size and shape and ingredients of any treats you purchase to be sure that they don’t pose a choking hazard or allergic reaction.

Natural Dogs:The options for the organic eating dog are countless. And if you can’t decide on just one type, you might want to consider purchasing your favorite treat along with an all-natural dog recipe book. Then his or her owners can bake yummy, organic treats right at home.

Cat Considerations

Just like dogs, cats love toys, but not really the kind to chew on.

Cats prefer to chase, bat at and pounce on their toys. Also, just like dogs, cats are in danger of choking hazards as well, so choose carefully.

Natural Cats: Your health conscience, green-wise cat will appreciate the thought you put into his gift, as well as your respect for his environment when you choose organic toys or treats made from all-natural ingredients.

People Pleasers

Pet lovers will get all warm and furry (or fuzzy) inside when they realize the thought that you put into getting them a pet-themed gift. Consider their décor and preferred breed before purchasing and if you’re not sure, you can stick with the type of pet-themed gift (dog or cat) rather than a specific breed.

Some great ideas are: pet beds, bowls, clothing (for either themselves or their pets!), organic pet gifts, license plate frames, biscuit containers, wall décor, books on pets and pet topics, welcome mats or pet magazine subscriptions.

Hostess Gift

(A really great idea!)

If you’ve been invited to dinner at the home of a pet lover, you might consider bringing a little pet-themed hostess gift or even a small gift for the pet as well. They’ll love it, and they’ll love you for it!

No time to learn new presentation skills?

This reminds me of a story.

A guy is driving to work and notices the red light come on. No gas. Instead of stopping to fill up, here’s what he says: “I’m late for work. No time to get gas.”

Not too smart, right?

If you aren’t learning new skills, you are driving on empty. Face the facts. New people are coming up behind you and nipping at your heels. They’re comfortable presenting online. They have taken training in video presenting, storytelling, selling with white boarding, and interactive selling.

Are you sure you don’t want to stop and get gas? Sure you don’t have time to invest in getting new skills?

Of course, perhaps you have the impression that presentation skill training is expensive, cumbersome, only available in person, and only available if your company pays for it. Right?

Wrong.

These are false assumptions. Presentation skills training used to be reserved for executives and leaders because it was only available at a stiff price, costing $12,000 or more per day. Usually these expensive seminars were held on site or at costly hotels, with scheduling and videotaping feedback arranged by the training or HR department.

Some organizations still provide this. But a lot of companies have scaled back. But should you let this decrease in investment and shortsighted thinking affect your personal development? No way.

Instead of waiting for the expensive seminar that might never get to you, you need to find an affordable training you can take right away. And you can access anywhere, anytime.

Look for a training that is easy to use whether you’re in the office, at your desk or on the road.

This is why the obvious choice is e-learning in a virtual learning hub. With a complete set of videos, classes and resources online, it is easy to develop skills – anytime and anywhere. Rather than relying on corporate curriculums, training schedules, and things that may be out of your control, grab hold of the reins.

When you learn virtually, you can learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Here’s my short list of criteria to look for: virtual classes, unlimited access, instant viewing, interactive webinars and instant downloads.

In evaluating a virtual presentation skills training, look for how much you can learn on your own – and in short chunks. You may not have tons of time. But if you watch a short video, grab a checklist or download a blueprint – you get an immediate boost to your skills in just a few minutes.

One important thing to keep in mind: it’s easier to learn — and keep learning, if you have a big success using the skills. When you’ve got a big presentation coming up, look for instant boosts. As you evaluate any communication training program, look for the blend of long term improvement plus instant help. Is it practical? Is it a skill you can use right away? Does it help you solve the jitters when you are giving a presentation tomorrow morning?

When the answer is “yes!” then you are more likely to enjoy the experience, get visible results, and keep on learning. This is the mark of an exceptional virtual training program.