Job Offers and Salary Negotiation

Find out what others in similar roles are earning to help you know how you should be paid. Apply this to your current level of experience for the most accurate idea of what to expect.

• Research salaries: Use the Steppingblocks Digital Career Counselor or visit websites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indeed or Glassdoor to learn about salary ranges for jobs.
• Talk with others who are employed in the same position: If you know someone who does the same type of work, ask them for the typical pay range of the position.

Salary is just one part of what you receive as an employee for a company or organization. Benefits you should know or ask about include:

• Paid time off
• Health insurance
• Flexible scheduling
• Remote work possibilities
• Stock options
• Parental leave
• Childcare assistance
• Professional development opportunities
• Signing bonus

Knowing what benefits matter the most to you can help you negotiate a salary based on your needs and wants. Note: Employers who offer benefits may offer a firm salary range as a result.

Take some time to think about the best way to make your case to your employer.

• Make a list of your skills, qualifications and achievements: Focusing on what you have to offer will help you highlight the specific value you bring to the role and what you’re worth.
• Highlight how you can specifically help your employer: Outline some of the needs of the employer and ways your skillset and experience can solve those problems to demonstrate your value and knowledge.

Forage can help you gain real-world experience through free virtual job simulations from top companies. You can explore career paths and build skills that employers value at your own pace.

Practice your pitch – whether it’s alone or with a friend, partner or family member – to make sure you say what you want to say during the negotiation. Ask the person you’re practicing with for feedback and treat the practice sessions like they’re the real thing. You may even consider recording yourself to see how you come across to make any adjustments that might be needed.

Make sure your employer knows your value. Here are some ways to show a physical sense of confidence during your negotiation:

• Maintain eye contact.
• Keep an upright posture.
• Speak clearly and deliberately.

Negotiation isn’t about creating conflict; it’s about resolving it. Make sure to maintain a sense of kindness during the process.

• Thank your employer for taking the time to talk with you at the beginning of the negotiation.
• Let them know your interest in the position and your desire to work for them, whether this is for a new role or an existing role.
• Smile when appropriate.
• Keep a calm tone even if a disagreement comes up. Being professional and courteous in this moment could ultimately help you get a salary increase down the road with this employer when it becomes available.
• Be an active listener during the conversation.

Your employer likely will counter your initial number with a counter-salary offer, so it is wise to start negotiations by requesting a salary higher than your target amount so you can negotiate down to it. Make sure the minimum offer will cover your current expenses. Also, be the one first to suggest a number so you can set the terms of the conversation.

Stay firm about your goals during the conversation to show your employer you are serious about what you’re asking for. Encourage them to meet your target but be flexible in finding a solution that works for both of you. Being willing to make concessions in some areas may help in the negotiating process.