Between combing the classifieds, revamping your resume and those dreaded "interview jitters," snagging a new job can be so draining that money — the most important part! — almost becomes an afterthought. Yet failing to push for all you're worth up-front is a big mistake, says Maryanne Wegerbauer, a human resources consultant and author of Next-Day Salary Negotiation. You may find yourself permanently stuck in the range you agreed to, since annual raises — if a company even offers them — usually comprise a set, and fairly small, percentage of your salary. "Your strongest opportunity to negotiate is always before you’ve accepted the offer." Below, the pros tackle three common dilemmas:

I’m answering an ad, and they want me to include my salary requirement. I don’t want to sell myself short, or take myself out of the running. What should I say?
"The best approach is to include a salary range," says Wegerbauer. But don’t simply tack $5,000 to $10,000 onto what you’re currently making. Research the level of compensation that reflects your industry's standard, for someone with your training and experience. Note, too, that some salaries — for government work and teaching positions, for example — are more likely to conform to specific standards than others. If the pay in your particular field varies widely, check out the nationwide averages via the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov).

I’ve been offered an intriguing job, but the salary is too low. How can I ask for more without seeming to be disinterested?
Michael Zwell, Ph.D., author of Six-Figure Salary Negotiation, suggests being diplomatic but clear with your interviewer about your expectations. Say something along the lines of, "I’ve heard great things about the company, and I’m extremely interested in this type of work, but this is a little less than I was hoping for. Is there anything you can do?" If a prospective employer doesn’t have wiggle room on the money front, consider the merits of other rewards. "Vacation time tends to be more negotiable," says Zwell. Also ask about tuition reimbursement, and other kinds of training. Combined, these kinds of benefits can make up for a small paycheck.

If an interviewer asks for my current salary, can I exaggerate?
Moral and ethical issues aside, it’s still a bad idea, insists Wegerbauer. "Very often, employers do touch base with your previous bosses for references."" Since there's nothing preventing those bosses from revealing your salary, you could find yourself jobless if the truth comes out. "And falsifying information on an employment application," Wegerbauer adds, "can be grounds for dismissal."