For most people, especially the fresh-graduates, negotiating salary for the first time is always hard. They feel underpaid but wonder whether it is too aggressive to offer a higher number. Not to mention, young age and the lack of experience make them hesitant as if they asked for too much. If they require an unreasonable rate, might they lose the job? More importantly, they do not know how to negotiate salary job offer properly.
In this post, I will share some tips to negotiate confidently and get your desirable entry-level salary.
Table of Contents
Why Is Your First Salary Matter?
Even when you are thirsting for a living or job experience, do not accept an unpaid offer.
Firstly, you might miss the opportunities for a better base salary
I know that many people feel unconfident in a salary discussion as they think the recruiter has a stronger position. It isn’t always true.
You should know that even when an employer appreciates you, he or she hardly gives a high offer from the very first time. There is always a “negotiating cushion.” In other words, they are willing to extend the offer as long as you negotiate the right way.
The ball is now at your feet. How to negotiate salary job offer is up to you.
Secondly, a slightly higher salary improves your life
We are all struggling to have a better life, better relationships, and a better reward in our work. So why we are too easy with the salary negotiation at first?
Do a quick calculation!
If you manage to get one or two additional hundreds of dollars in your base salary, you will get thousands of dollars at the end of the year. Use this extent for your family or yourself.
Thirdly, the first salary will transfer over the future offers
Your base salary will be the foundation for your next position. If you are comfortable at first, your employer will also be tighter in their budget for your next promotion.
That salary even follows you to your next job. When you apply for a vacancy and pass the interview, both you and the employer use your past salary to give the offer.
Finally, a desirable salary makes you more motivated
The base salary is not only about money, but it also demonstrates the recognition of your competence. More money, more motivated – right?
Even when you feel unpaid, you do not have enough confidence to ask for a raise. Then, sooner or later, you are unsatisfied with the salary. Finally, you quit.
How to Negotiate Salary Job Offer?
Take these three words: Confidence, Persuadability, and Determination.
Before the interview
#1. Know your value
Before you apply for a job, you should determine what makes you the best candidate for that position.
Prepare a “brag sheet,” listing all outstanding traits, accomplishments, experiences, and awards. On the one hand, this information will not only improves your confidence. On the other hand, you have enough evidence to show your value to the employer.
# 2. Refer to the market average
The market average is a good baseline to set your desired salary.
There are several ways to figure out that number: job description, the recruiting information for similar positions (both online and offline), your acquaintances, and industrial experts.
#3. Calculate your desirable range
Based on your value and the average point, you now should plan an acceptable range and the “walk-away’’ limit. Here are several factors to take into mind:
- Your strengths and weaknesses
- Years of experiences in the industry
- Qualifications and skills
- Geographic location
#4: Practice the negotiation discussion
You can predict several questions that the employer might ask you in the interview, especially about the salary issues. Prepare the answers and backup information to persuade the employer.
Try to rehearse with a friend who can give you trusted advice.
During the interview
#1. Talk with a confident voice
Confidence is the key!
Before discussing the numbers, tell the employer what you have, what you have done in the past, and more importantly, what you will and can do to contribute to the company if they offer you the position.
Do not talk in trite and hollow. Show reliability, using your prepared brag sheet.
Be even more confident to ask for a raise in the salary offer if you feel the first figure is under the market average and not deserve for your value.
#2. Do not start the money problem first
Try not to raise a “money conversation” before the employer implies anything. Otherwise, you make a terrible mistake. It seems that you focus on your benefits rather than you will contribute to the company in the whole.
As long as you present convincingly, the employer will make you a kind offer.
#3. Require a higher rate rather than you want
The recruiter – your bargaining partner, will try to negotiate down from your first requirement. Hence, you should ask more than your desired number.
Such the difference is based on the job you ask for, the value you have, and the attitude of the employer during the conversation.
Deal confidently to the point that you feel comfortably acceptable.
#4. Don’t be greedy, be flexible
Besides the paycheck, consider the “work-life” benefits as well.
There is a case that the entry-level is under your first goal; however, the benefits are exceptionally favorable. Then, be flexible and think it over whether you should accept a trade-off.
#6. Refuse when it comes to ‘walk-away’ point
Always have your own range.
Turn down when the offer comes below your minimum salary requirement, and there is neither evidence that the employer will change your mind nor he/she will give you compensation in other benefits.
No need to be so stressed-out or disappointed about yourself when that recruiter does not realize your value. Just look for a better offer. There are dozens of opportunities elsewhere.
After the interview
#1: Require more time to consider the offer
Remember that you do not need to say “Yes” or “No” right away. You can ask for a time extension, saying, “I need some time to think over your kind offer.”
But, never forget to:
- Ask additional questions about what you are confusing and what might affect your decision, such as bonus, working conditions, benefits and compensations
- Confirm the deadline to respond to the offer. If the employer does not have a specific time, you can request one and stick to that deadline
- Response in a writing form, usually an email. Even when you reject the first offer, you can negotiate more via the email.
#2: Stay happy and motivated
If you finally get a desirable deal and have your wanted job, congratulations! I wish you have a good time at your new company.
Otherwise, you reject the deal. Again, no need to be depressed. At least, you have gained valuable experiences for your next interview. Next time, you will grab your goal!
I Wish You Luck in Your Salary Negotiation
I hope this guide on how to negotiate salary job offer is useful for you. If you have something to share me in advance, for example, your effective tactics to get a great deal, please share it in the comment. I appreciate it.
Now get prepared the best.
