SAM'S CENTS

Close First, Ask Later

You are reentering the workforce or you are looking for a new position. You see a job description and think, "That sounds like a great fit for me. I would apply if they let me work from home on Fridays." Or, "It would be easier if I could come in late every other Thursday morning. Would they allow that?"

When you are applying for the job, you want to be focused on getting the offer and standing out for your merits, not because you are the candidate asking for special concessions. Instead, do everything you can to get the position, and then, once they have fallen for you, ask for the terms you need. This doesn't mean you are pulling the wool over their eyes, just that you are selling them on your skills before opening up a discussion as to how it can be an optimal fit for both of you.