getthesalaryyoudeserve jobs features Virgin Media

Well done. You negotiated the three-stage interview process, the psychometric tests and all the other hoops they put in front of you and got the job.

But whilst you might have convinced your new employer you joined them for the career challenge, the training opportunities and the view from the canteen window, deep down you had other motives. Yes, the "M word": money. Changing jobs can be a very good opportunity to improve your lot financially.

If your new job is a salary-banded one in the public sector or comes with a fixed amount of dough, look away now. The rest of you can start salivating, because this is the bit where we tell you how to get the money you want and deserve.

So, let's see if we can't get you down to the Jaguar showroom sometime soon.

1: Be aware

Hey, jobs these days aren't just a salary, right? Are you getting a set of wheels, pension, commission or luncheon vouchers? This is the package and, if it's a good one, there may not be much room for negotiation.

Weigh it all up and don't look like a twerp by asking for big wonga that just isn't there.

2: Secure the job offer first

Ensure your new employer recognises just how vital your contribution will be to his company. You've done this at interview stage, but it's key to remind him when it gets to the sharp end of proceedings.

If you accept a salary offer, things won't look up much from there unless you get promoted.

3: Know your worth

Do your homework. If your colleagues in similar roles are rolling around the floor in giggles at your salary offer, that probably means you should be asking for more.

You can check out salaries at recruitment firms, in job ads and on salary surveys online. You should also find out if people with your skills are ten-a-penny or if employers are likely to fight to the death over you.

4: Stand firm

Experts say you should never be the first to mention a figure.

Obviously, this can result in a stand-off to rival the Alamo, but you should be strong. And vague. Use phrases like "A package in the area of..." Don't sell yourself short.

If you have to mention a figure, shoot high. If you want £35k, start at £40k. If they come up with a figure first, ask yourself if it's reasonable. It is? Great. Now start looking at the rest of the package.

If, on the other hand, your first reaction was to chuckle or reach for the Jack Daniels, you might want to ask if there's room for negotiation. You could also ask if the figure includes perks.

If all else fails, tell them you've been offered another job for more money but would prefer to work with them. However, if they say "Great. Don't let us hold you back", don't expect a Christmas card.

5: Deal with derisory offers

If your immediate desire when you heard their opening offer was to lie down in a darkened room, resist the urge to belly-laugh. Instead, you could say, "I don't think that salary is very competitive." If you're feeling brave, you might even try, "Is that really the best you can do?"

Unless the employer has skin like a rhino, he should get the message that his offer needs to head northwards sharpish.

In the case of other benefits that he's offered as makeweights, such as company cars and share options, be aware that these might not be permanent - they could be based on performance or on how well the economy is doing. Incorporate this in to your negotiations.

6: Move on

Be brave. You can turn down an offer. Doing this will give you a huge ego boost and will give you the mental strength of David Blaine's more-serene twin.

Never get suckered into accepting an underpaying job with a title like 'Vice-President, Global Sales', or that offers promotion opportunities. Get paid what you're worth. Now.