You’ve aced the interview, landed the offer, and now it’s time for a step many students overlook: Salary Negotiation. Whether it’s your first job out of college or an internship offer, negotiating your salary is a crucial skill. Here are some tips to consider while navigating the process:
Do
- Research the salary ranges and cost of living prior to interviewing
- Consider the whole package (salary + benefits) to determine the value of a job offer
- Be positive – always thank the recruiter for the offer (even if it is very low)
- Ask if there is room for negotiation
- Respect the timeframe that the employer gives you for making a decision
- Be diplomatic and professional
- Get the final offer in writing
Don’t
- Discuss salary until the employer brings it up
- Enter into negotiations if you know that you won’t accept any offer
- Under -value your worth
- Play “hard ball”
- Provide negative reasons why you are declining the offer
Commonly Asked Questions
If you’re feeling unsure about how to approach the negotiation, you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common questions we get from students and how to navigate them:
It can feel awkward at first, but negotiation is a normal part of the hiring process. Here’s a basic, professional way to frame your request:
“Thank you so much for the offer! I’m really excited about this opportunity. After looking at the offer and doing some industry research, I was hoping we could discuss the starting salary.“
Your request doesn’t have to only pertain to salaries or money. The negotiation process is also a great time to discuss other benefits like:
- Signing Bonsuses
- Relocation Assistance / Travel Stipends
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Remote Work Options
- Professional Development Support and Training
- Educational Reimbursement
- Telework Opportunities
Above all else, approach the conversation with confidence! Express genuine appreciation for the opportunity and be clear when communicating what you value and why you believe the offer can be adjusted. You may be speaking with someone you’ve interacted with before or someone new, so it’s important to strike a balance between professional self-assurance and gratitude throughout the process.
In most cases, your initial offer will come through a phone call or email from the HR department. This is when you should be taking the time to review your offer and bringing up negotiations (not during your interview or before you have the job).
- Take time to fully understand the details of the offer, especially before negotiating, this includes salary, start date, benefits, and any deadlines.
- If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Clarifying now helps avoid misunderstandings later.
- Show appreciation for the offer and ask about anything you want to renegotiate and/or the next steps in the process.
Keep in mind you are not required to accept the offer on the spot, especially if you receive the call while you’re heading to class, working, or need time to consider your options. It’s completely appropriate to say something like:
“Thank you so much for the offer! I’m really excited about this opportunity. I’d like to take some time to review everything, can I get back to you by [date and time]?”
If you need more time, most employers will allow 3–7 days, sometimes longer depending on the role. Just remember to confirm the latest deadline they’re working with and propose specific dates so they know when to expect a reply.
Yes! While a lot of internships and entry-level roles have fixed compensation, it never hurts to ask respectfully. Even if the employer can’t change the pay, depending on the situation they may be able to offer:
- A signing bonus
- Additional paid time off
- Remote work flexibility
- Early review for performance-based raises
- Training/certification, school accreditation, and developmental support
- Relocation and travel stipends
You should definitely do your research. Use salary comparison tools and talk to alumni, professors, or mentors in your field. Consider factors like:
- Job location (cost of living)
- Industry standards
- Level of experience required
- Company size or type (startups vs. large corporations)
Apart from the resources listed on the page featured articles and resource section, here are more helpful sites/resources to consider:
- Research industry salary standards and annual earnings through the Lightcast Labor Market Data Research Tool
- For local opportunities/apprenticeships, especially entry-level jobs, it may be more appropriate to compare your wage offer with local Fresno salary data.
- Meet with your Career Liaison for extra assistance.
If the employer isn’t able to move on salary or other benefits you asked for, don’t panic. Stay professional and express your enthusiasm for the role. You can ask:
“I understand and can sympathize with the limitations you mentioned. Thank you for the consideration.”
If you’re feeling bold and really need the assistance, you can add:
“If possible, could we revisit this topic after my first performance review (or a couple months, if reviews don’t apply)?”
It’s important to remember that sometimes, simply initiating the conversation shows a lot about your confidence and maturity. Even if the outcome doesn’t change the offer, you’re leaving a bold first impression to your employer.
We are here to support you! For additional help feel free to visit the Career Development Center (USU Room 306) and we can help:
- Talk through your script or research
- Research and review your offer letter
