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You’ve recently graduated and nailed the job interview. 👊
You’re optimistic and hopeful for a job offer, but start to feel uneasy as you consider your next task: pay negotiations.
Why Negotiate?
Negotiating your pay can seem intimidating, but consider it another opportunity to convey your value and professionalism to your hiring manager.
There’s no harm in asking, but there may be harm in NOT asking. You’ll do better over the course of your career if you negotiate a good starting salary.
Do Your Homework
Before entering negotiation conversations, research competitive salary ranges for similar positions in your region. Check out salary resources like Glassdoor.
Next, determine the lowest amount you desire or could comfortably live with - also called your walkaway rate.
Did you know?
You can get feedback on your resume from Rumie community members in our Discord Server. Come by, we'll help you get the job!
Your First Response
Receiving your first job offer is huge! But even if the offer is generous, don’t take the leap just yet.
Take a deep breath and be thoughtful and thorough in your response.
Your Phone Is Ringing
It’s the hiring manager calling with an offer. They've offered a lower salary than you'd hoped. How do you respond?
A. Accept the offer on the spot.
B. Seize the moment! Present a counter offer right away.
C. Ask for the offer in writing and say you'd like a few days to think it over.
D. Walk away from the offer.
Quiz
How should you first respond to the hiring manager's low offer?
Regardless of how much research and prep you've done, it's good to give yourself some time to consider the offer. Be sure to ask for it in writing so you can carefully review the office and ask how much time you have to consider the offer.
What's Next?
Review the full compensation package. Take note of questions that come up for you.
Salaries Aren't The Only Things To Negotiate
If the salary is set in stone or lower than you had hoped, you still may be able to negotiate for:
extra vacation time
a sign-on bonus
company equity
Quiz
What of the following items may also be negotiated?
There's more on the table than just pay. Consider the other elements of the job that could help you meet your day-to-day obligations or improve your quality of life like training, flexibility, and support if you need to move or set up an office.
Your Counter Offer
By demonstrating your value and understanding of the job, you gain more negotiating power (and confidence).
Your counter offer should include:
Your interest in the job
Item(s) you'd like to negotiate
Reminder of the reasons to hire you
Your counter offer, backed by research
Request for next steps
Take Action
This is unlikely to be your last job offer. By confidently negotiating your first offer you’ll be setting yourself up for career and financial success for years to come and prove your worth!
Next time you approach a salary negotiation:
This Byte has been authored by
Jenn Whiting
UX/LX Designer