Salary Negotiation

View our online salary negotiation workshop at http://www.stpaulcareers.umn.edu/workshops.html.

Surveys indicate that nearly 100% of employers feel it is acceptable for a candidate to attempt to negotiate salary.  The majority of employers also noted that the initial salary that they offer is lower than what they are willing to pay because they anticipate the candidate may negotiate.

Don't discuss salary until:

• The employer knows your skills well through interviews

• You know the employer and the position description in detail

• All interviews are completed and you have a job offer

 Before you negotiate:

• Conduct in-depth research on the “market value” for this position using professional associations, want ads/internet job postings for similar positions, informational interviews, St. Paul Campus Career Center resource library has salary surveys, web sites - see related links on this web site

• Determine your minimum salary and add 5-10% to that amount

• Identify other areas you might negotiate including vacation time, flexible hours, school reimbursement, and/or parking.

How to negotiate:

Employer:  “We would like to offer you the position with a salary of $XX,XXX.”

Possible Responses:

• “Is that number firm?”

• “Based on my extensive experience in the field and the level of responsibility this position requires, would you consider a salary closer to $XX,XXX?”

• “Could you tell me how you arrived at that number?  I want this to work for both of us.”

What to avoid in Salary Negotiation…

Avoid salary discussions before an offer is made.  If an employer pushes you to discuss salary before an offer consider one of the following responses:

• “I am sure you have a salary range for the position, could you tell me about the pay structure?”

• “I am confident that we can find a salary that works for both of us, right now I would like to focus on making sure I am the best fit for the position.”

• “My salary requirements will depend upon the job requirements and benefits, but my research shows the market rate for this position is between $XX,XXX and $XX,XXX.”

Don't use financial responsibilities as a reason to get a higher salary - they won't care.  Instead remind them of what you will contribute!

Don’t make a decision on the spot, instead get the offer in writing, ask for detailed information on benefits, and request a day or two to review the offer.