There is no resisting the fear and shakiness of getting that first job offer. That is the moment when you finally begin working professionally and start being financially independent. With that being said, most people cannot afford to skip negotiating for their first salary.
The best time to negotiate is after you’ve heard the offer, but prior to acceptance. That’s when you have the most power. They’ve picked you, and they don’t have to go back to the drawing board on the hiring process.
That is why we compiled five mistakes that first-time negotiators make in those “how to negotiate your first salary” talks, and how to avoid them.
1. Negotiating Without Market Research
You can’t even negotiate effectively if you don’t know what similar jobs are being paid. Blindside negotiating in the negotiation chair places you at a distinct handicap.
A 2022 study by Glassdoor found that those who have done salary range research are three times more likely to feel confident in negotiation. That confidence pays off, and a positive attitude (even an emailed one) will catch hiring managers’ eye and interest.
Still not sure about wording your request? Google an example script on how to negotiate your first salary. These examples will make you even more confident.
2. Not Negotiating at All
The greatest mistake is not negotiating at all. A lot of beginners believe they don’t have negotiating “bargaining” strength in the conversation.
Pew Research Center survey showed that 58% of workers who negotiated a salary received a pay increase. Yet it is a part of the conversation that few novice job seekers applying for entry-level jobs fear. They don’t know how to do it skillfully because they lack the information needed to do it right.
Negotiating is not bargaining but standing firm in what you believe you are worth. Always try to negotiate even if the offer is great. Employers always have some wiggle room flexibility in the company budget, for that matter.
Keep in mind that negotiating is respectful from both sides in the meeting and shows initiative rather than an attitude of expectation.
Also, don’t downplay the non-monetary value.
Along with numbers and returns, negotiation also gives a company an idea of how they view their employees. If a potential employer responds negatively to a fair, respectful bargaining offer, it might be a reason to exercise caution.
According to author and career strategist Ramit Sethi, how a firm negotiates reflects how it treats individuals. If they’re rigid or arrogant before you even begin, consider how they’ll treat you six months from now.
Negotiation is not a money tactic; it’s a clarity tactic.
3. Explaining Personal Needs
It makes sense that you would need more money than they offer you first because you have all those expenses that you brought along with you to this point in life.
College loans to pay off, car payments, financially supporting parents, and similar things, but the catch is that companies don’t pay for what you need, but for what you’re worth.
If you negotiate from the stance of what is happening in your life currently, then you are perceived as an inexperienced or novice negotiator.
Don’t go out throwing out statements that you need more money because your rent is too high. Start with what you’re worth, not what you need.
4. Taking an Impulsive First Offer
It’s tempting to accept an offer on the spot, especially when you’re eager to start or worried another offer won’t come. But doing so can leave money and respect on the table.
Recruiters often expect some level of back-and-forth. Accepting too fast can signal a lack of confidence or awareness of your market worth. How to avoid this mistake?
Always be courteous and request 24 to 48 hours to decide on the offer, even though you know you will take it. This gives you time to review benefits, look at the total compensation package, and perform a final salary check
You might find you have room to negotiate, including vacation time, signing bonuses, or relocation reimbursement.
Whether they say yes, no, or “maybe later,” your response matters. Always follow up with a professional thank-you note or email, reiterating your excitement and commitment to the role.
This kind of professionalism builds goodwill and shows emotional intelligence, qualities that are valuable long-term, especially when you’re new to the workforce.
5. Only Considering Base Salary
Although your salary is important, it’s just one aspect of the compensation package. Benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities can be just as valuable or even more so.
In fact, according to a report by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 92% of employees reported that benefits are a key factor in job satisfaction.
How to steer clear of this mistake? Ask about:
- Signing bonuses
- Stock options or equity
- Flexibility to work remotely
- Paid education or training stipends
Assume the company can’t raise your pay. Might they provide a bonus instead? A better health plan? Flex time? These benefits typically cost the firm less but have high value for you.
Like any skill, salary negotiation gets better with practice. Practice with a friend or mentor. If you can, record yourself delivering your pitch to hear how clear and confident you sound.
Practice this sample roleplay:
“Thank you so much for the invitation. I’m very interested in the job and looking forward to joining the team. Based on what I’ve found and taking into account my qualifications, I was hoping somewhere in the neighborhood of $60,000. Is there any flexibility on the base salary?”
You have accepted the offer, expressed interest, provided reasoning, and asked for more, all in a concise, professional-sounding remark.
What if they say no? Even if you are rejected, you’ve lost nothing by asking. Indeed, it shows initiative, professionalism, and self-confidence, which are valued by recruiters.
If the employer cannot discuss pay, consider posing the question when you can reopen the conversation. A good request is:
“I realize that the budget is fixed now. Would it be acceptable to discuss compensation after my initial performance review?”
This leaves the door open for further negotiation and shows that you are ready to prove your value.
How to Negotiate Your First Salary With Confidence
Knowing how to negotiate your initial salary isn’t just about earning more; it’s about starting your career on a solid foundation. Every conversation you have with a potential employer becomes part of your professional image.
Avoiding these novice mistakes sets you ahead. From researching to being cognizant of what not to do, your preparation and mindset prepare you for success.
Remember that negotiation is not confrontation. It’s a conversation. And with confidence, respect, and knowledge, it can be the door to a powerful, empowered career.
Whether you’re working from a how-to negotiate your first salary example, studying an example negotiation, or conducting real-world research, the most important thing is this: don’t shortchange yourself because your future self will thank you.
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