Most of us have been brought up to be 'NICE' as opposed to COMPETITIVE and then these kind of bullshit tips keep simple middle class folk (and I was one of them till I woke up to the Hypocrisy all around) from getting a better deal in life.

1) There's more to a job than money - sure, if your dad's left you a Billion $$! Else, money is the Single Most important thing in a job and negotiate like hell for a good deal. Whether the company does extremely well or bad, you only have your paycheck and that is waht will remain with you even after you leave. You don't even know whether the great inspiring boss is going to be around for the next 3 years or not!

2) Vacation time, bonuses etc.: While asking is considered taboo in the Mai Baap Ji Huzoori that is India, its good to check what time in the evening your interview drags on till. DO people regularly work late? Talk with people informally, including the receptionist, do people get holidays?

Remember two points:

First, In India, idiots actually become bosses, by polishing day and night, and they think working 12 hours a day and not going on vacations, in BUSINESS(!) (I mean I understand if a soldier works 24 X 7 in a war) is smart and hard work and commitment.

Second, if salary / compensation and holiday / family time were so unimportant, employers would not be so touchy about it.

I for one consider only two things important - the quality of work (not dull/routine projects; projects which will help me learn new things) and Pay (including office timings and vacation). You were right in saying that whatever your interviewer (your prospective boss) says about the company, he/she is sure to leave all the gyan that he/she gave to you about the company/work and go for a better offer. Be smart in what you ask for - be ready for a 50% cut if the going is tough but do not hesitate to ask for a 100% raise if you are in a position to command it. Whether you like it or not, play it or not, Indian companies' HRs play this game all the time - recession or no recession.

Look out for yourself, because NO ONE ELSE WILL.