Negotiation is an art. It’s about looking for mutually beneficial solutions instead of trying to “win.” This article will show you how to negotiate your first job offer without getting the short end of the stick.
What is the process of negotiating a salary?
If you’re a new grad, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed by the idea of negotiating a salary. Afraid of offending the company, maybe. Or worried that they’ll think you’re money-hungry or not serious about the job. That’s why we’ve compiled some insider tips on how to negotiate your first job offer.
What to Say at the Negotiation
In a negotiation, there are two main schools of thought: prepare for an argument or prepare for a conversation. The first is good for someone who’s more competitive while the second is better for those who want to explore their options.
Tips for negotiating a salary offer
When you’re looking for a job, it’s common to get a salary offer that may not be what you expected. This is when negotiating can come in handy.
Tips for Negotiating:
- When negotiating with your employer, use phrases like “I’m excited about the opportunity and I want to make sure this is right for me” and “I understand the offer but I need more information on the details of the benefits package.”
- You should ask for more than you really want in order to create room for negotiation. For example, if you want $72,000 per year and they offer $70,000 per year, request $75,000 per year or another small increase.
How much can be negotiated when it comes to salaries?
It is possible to negotiate salaries, but it’s not always easy. One way to gauge whether your contract will be negotiable is by looking at how competitive you are in the job market. If there are many qualified people looking for work, then employers may be more willing to bargain. Remember that employers may also be trying to negotiate with you, so if you’re struggling to find any way around their offer, ask them what else they can do.
How to interview when negotiation is at stake?
When you are interviewing for your first job, you should always be prepared to negotiate. You should research the company beforehand to find out what they can offer you in terms of salary and benefits. It is important to be honest about your worth because if you are too low, companies will not want to hire you. If done right, negotiation can lead to a win-win situation for both parties.
What benefits should you negotiate in addition to the salary?
One of the benefits you should negotiate in addition to salary are the company’s vacation policy. Some companies offer unlimited vacation days whereas other companies may have a more traditional policy with 10-14 paid vacation days per year.
How to Close the Discussion
You are now at the negotiation stage. You have asked for the salary you want, discussed your concerns, and agreed on a timeline. Now, it is time to close the discussion with an agreement. Use the job offer letter to state that you are ready to start this position on that specific date and will be contacting them soon about any further details they may need from you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a job right now, don’t be afraid to negotiate the salary you’re being offered. If you want more money and they offer less than you were hoping for, politely ask them to reconsider and maybe even remind them of how much time and effort you’ve put into the conversation.
