To be successful: Arm yourself with information in construction salary negotiations, research the construction employer's pay scale, the job's fair market value, the construction industry average and the region you'll be working in.

Delay construction salary and benefit discussions until you actually have an offer. You will have more negotiating power once you know you're the desired construction executive. And let the construction employer talk first; otherwise, you risk asking for less than what the construction employer is prepared to offer. If you must provide construction salary requirements during the application process, offer a bracketed range or say that you expect a construction salary that's competitive with the market.

Prove what you're worth. construction employers are more likely to honor your requests for higher compensation if you can demonstrate why you deserve it. Highlight your unique skills, specific accomplishments or the revenue you'll generate. Make sure your references give you good reviews--construction employers rely on past peers and construction employers when deciding on a higher construction salary.

Other benefits count. If a construction salary isn't negotiable, you may be able to get other perks such as increased vacation days, tuition reimbursement, moving expenses, stock options or profit sharing. Consider requesting an earlier performance review so your next construction salary discussion is sooner rather than later.

Always get your final compensation offer in writing. You can ask the construction employer for a day or two to review it before making a final decision, but once you sign on the dotted line, don't go back for more.