Entry-Level Salary Negotiation: A Recent Grad's Guide

Getting your first job offer is exciting, but don't accept immediately! Here's how to negotiate smartly.

Why You Should Always Negotiate

The numbers don't lie:

• 84% of employers expect negotiation
• Not negotiating your first salary can cost $500K+ over your career
• 76% of hiring managers say they have room in the budget

Research Your Worth

Before any negotiation:

• Check Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary
• Talk to career services about typical starting salaries
• Consider location, company size, and industry
• Add 10-20% to your target for negotiation room

When to Negotiate

DO negotiate when:

• You have a written offer
• The salary is below market rate
• You have competing offers
• The role requires relocation

• During the first interview
• Without research backing your request
• Multiple times on the same offer

Scripts That Work

Opening: "Thank you for the offer! I'm excited about joining [Company]. Based on my research of market rates for this role and my [specific skills/qualifications], I was hoping we could discuss a salary of [your number]."

If they can't budge on salary: "I understand the salary is fixed. Could we explore additional vacation days, signing bonus, or professional development budget?"

Remember: The worst they can say is no, and they won't rescind the offer for professional negotiation.