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How should I plan my budget so I know how much to seek for in salary at a job interview, etc?

I am a graduating senior (college) going being my job search. I know roughly what the average income for my job is.

Public Comments

1. Unfortunately jobs will pay the average entry level salary and no more. There is not much to bargain. Many are out there with experience and education looking for jobs. You will have to consider commuting costs, living expenses etc.
2. You need to also factor your expeience for that job. For example, if you're graduating with a business degree, and you've been working part time for a while in that field, you can use that experience to seek a higher salary. However if all you have is theoretical experience, it's going to be a little harder to ask for avg salary. You have a greater chance of landing a job since you are "fresh" out of school. Employers would be willing to train on the job, but they may not necessarily pay you more. Don't be afraid to take the lower paying job, so long as it's in the direction you want to go - It'll help you out in the future!
3. To create a budget, you'll need to determine what your costs are going to be. These could include rent, utilities, car payment (and insurance), student loans, food, etc. After figuring all that out, you'll be able to tell how much you need to earn to cover your costs and hopefully save some money as well. When it comes to negotiating a salary at a job interview, that has more to do with the type of job, your level of experience and/or qualifications, the city in which you will be working, etc. You mentioned that you know roughly the average salary for your job. Here are some links from PayScale.com that can help you more accurately determine what a fair salary would be as well as successfully negotiate salary offers. Free salary survey: http://www.payscale.com/ Salary Negotiation: http://www.payscale.com/resources_neg_tips Cost of living calculator: http://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator Hope that helps
4. From what I can tell the best skill you need is NEGOTIATING. With that skill in your pocket you will get enough, without having the need to plan a budget. When I was in your place several years back I stumbled upon this site. It still is online now that means it is doing good business. http://www.911jobinterview.com/ They offer job hunting support. Check them out and ask them for expert help.