Do you want a simple yet powerful way to secure bigger job offers?

It all starts in the interview - when money comes up.

If money comes up in the first interview or in a phone interview, and you give up information such as how much you made in your last position or what you are looking for in terms of compensation, then you have successfully steered the focus of the interview....in the wrong direction.

When money is brought to the spotlight before a company has had time to get to know you and all of the value you could bring to them, then how much it will "cost" to hire you will take center stage. And when this happens you will have to work harder in order to compel your interviewers to see above and beyond your price tag.

Not only do you stand to loose your negotiating power by prematurely mentioning money, but the dollar figure you mention will now serve as an immovable backdrop against the successful communication of your strengths and attributes.

It's interesting how this works - but it's very true.

You might be thinking "Well how do I get around such a direct question about money in my interviews? After all, I don't want to appear rude and hurt my chances of being invited back." It's wise to be considerate of these points; however you can successfully sidestep these questions and prolong discussions about money for a later interview by using these simple techniques:

Technique Number 1

When you are asked how much money you are looking for, simply state that salary is important to you but equally important are benefits. Ask them since you are on the subject, If they could share their benefit package with you.

This is a simple diversion that is extremely effective.

Technique Number 2

When asked about how much compensation you are looking for or what you currently make, you can share that although you would be happy to discuss money with them, you were hoping to get a better understanding of the opportunity and give them a little more time to get to know you - in order to see if there is a potential fit.

Follow this statement up with asking them "If that is OK." After all, you are offering not to answer their question so your diplomacy and polite response will help you to successfully sidestep this question until a later interview.

Using these two simple techniques will help you keep a focus on your skills and abilities as they relate to the position you are interviewing for - and set the tone and pace for a bigger and better offer!

Would you like to learn how to quickly and easily get more interviews, shorten your job search and increase your salary? Check out my website: http://www.maryelizabethbradford.com for free articles, free resources and to sign up for my free audio mini-seminar "5 Simple Steps To Find, Focus On and WIN Your Dream Job - Starting Today!" Career marketing expert and nationally certified advanced resume writer Mary Elizabeth Bradford is "The Career Artisan."