Man: We are very impressed with your work. We’d like to offer you the job.

Woman: Excellent. Thank you.

Man: Now, let’s discuss your salary. You mentioned that you had a salary in mind.

Woman: Yes. A land acquisition manager with over two years experience usually makes between $68,000 and $84,000 in this area. Based on my strong portfolio with ABC Co. and my previous supervisor’s recommendation, I’m asking for $84,000 a year.

Man: I see. I’m not sure if our department’s budget has room for $84,000. And while your portfolio has grown in value so far, two years isn’t enough time to see your portfolio’s long-term value.

Woman: Well, if the budget doesn’t have much flexibility, how about other benefits, like vacation time?

Man: We offer two weeks’ vacation to new employees in addition to unlimited sick days. We also provide a family health-care plan. We even offer a free gym membership to the gym around the corner.

Woman: I like the sound of a gym membership. Are they open early and do they have showers?

Man: They open at 5:30, and yes, there are showers. You’ll find many of us working out before we start our mornings here.

Woman: Great. I don’t have a family yet and I’m in good health, but I’d like to be able to volunteer abroad for a couple of weeks in the fall. How does three weeks’ vacation sound to accommodate my volunteering plans?

Man: I think we can support your volunteering with three weeks’ vacation. With that much vacation and our excellent benefits package, how about $76,000? Don’t forget that we offer annual bonuses based on performance too.

Woman: Hmm. My portfolio for ABC Co. is projected to bring in almost $3 million in revenue for the company. That level of performance merits at least $80,000, even with a good benefits package.

Man: Well, okay. Given your portfolio, I’m prepared to offer up to the maximum the budget will allow: $79,000.

Woman: I can agree to $79,000. I look forward to working with you.