How do I negotiate my starting pay?

Question

I work for a Temp Agency and am assigned to a Receptionist position at a LARGE company. I transfer/direct calls to about 70-90 different employees (in office) in the building NOT including employees from Georgia to Canada! I've been there for 2 weeks and already mastered the position! Its a little more than a ordinary Receptionist position, I also assist 10 different Admins (which has verbally expressed to my manager how much they LOVE me).

Long story short, the Manager wants to "buy me" out of my contract with the Temp Agency though I have to go through an interview process like everyone else. Since I've already mastered the position and the employees plus managers have VERBALLY expressed how much they appreciate me (their words exact "you're a refreshing change"), what do i say/ how do I negotiate the pay I want with the company? Agency pays $12/hr..I'm aiming for starting pay of at LEAST $14.00 (the last Receptionist who they HATED made $14.42 and she was only there for 9 months).

Answer 1

Tell them that you would like to keep the job.  That you will expect 15.00 per hour, and her is your reason why.

I have mastered the system, and customer service has improved. (give a good example or two)

I am mature, and keep to myself.  I do not get involved in office gossip, so you can be assured of a pleasant experience working with me.  

I am capable and I am well liked.  I believe I will be a very valuable asset to this business and would love the opportunity to stay on as a full time employee at my desired salary.

Add every reason you can think of as to why you deserve the larger salary.

You will be suprised at how a manager will say yes, when an employee has proven themself!

Good luck

Answer 2

More than likely they are already paying more than 14 per hour for your services to the temp agency.  Thats how temp agencies work.  Employer pays something like 15 per hour, temp agency takes 3 per hour cut, and pays you 12.  Im sure you will get 14.42 when they hire you, but dont get too greedy because they still have to pay the temp agency to terminate their agreement.

Answer 3

My first comment would be, let THEM make you an offer.  You're already thinking that it won't be enough.  It's quite possible that they'll offer you more than the last person since you've mastered the job in such a short period of time.

Secondly, don't worry about the temp agency.  They'll negotiate with the Large company and that should have no bearing on your compensation.

Lastly, with every negotiation, each party gives and takes.  Have a number in your head and be able to back up with the reasons your deserve that number.  Write this down, be prepared for the interview and you'll do fine.

GOOD LUCK!