<prompt> Human: I worked for a firm that had a very public layoff; the entire industry was aware of it, and it was basically a total shutdown of offices in the geographic area. A lot of people about 400-500 were displaced and are currently looking for work. Because the offices closed were the only ones in the area run by the firm, any competitor that we apply to will see our work experience CV and know for a fact were unemployed. Some of us are being referred to positions by co-workers who have since gained employment, so those firms will know were unemployed through the referral, as well.What is a good way to handle salary negotiations while keeping this in mind? Basically all of us are vying for positions against each other, and with a sudden influx of 400 people into the labor pool, its not like there isnt demand for positions. Its basically assured that were going to be lowballed for salary and our experience and skills will be ignored. How should I we proceed when we get an offer thats below what we want?  <response>: Supply and demand rules. When there is excess supply, prices fall. This usually means take what youre offered or remain unemployed. Alternatively,l you could relocate to an area where there is less supply to restore some negotiating leverage. 