Negotiate an Offer
This community is a virtual space dedicated to helping current students confidently navigate the job offer negotiation process. Here you’ll find tailored resources and support to help guide you through the negotiation process including how to assess salary packages, negotiate benefits, and effectively communicate your value to potential employers. Whether you’re evaluating your first job offer or transitioning to a new role with an advanced degree, this supportive network empowers you to secure the best possible terms for your career.
Know Yourself and the Company
When evaluating a job offer, reflect on what is important to you and how the company and position aligns.
- Work Activities: What type of setting do you prefer? Do you enjoy working in a group or independently? Would you rather move around and gather empirical data, work outside, or rigourously calculate data?
- Nature of Employer Job: Would you prefer working for a Fortune 500 company or a small business? Are you looking for a set career pathway, or prefer to make it up as you go along?
- Pay & Benefits: Do you want a company with a high earning potential or generous time off policy? Are you looking for professional development support and tuition assistance? How important are your health benefits?
- Lifestyle: Where do you want to live? Big city? Small town? A place with easy access to outdoor activities or museums and theatre? Are you willing to have a long commute or would you rather work from home?
Research and Plan
Understand what salary the market supports for the position and understand the value you bring to plan for a successful negotiation.
- Benefits/Perks: Look for information on the company website, review the content of the initial offer, and use resources like Vault and Glassdoor about company benefits.
- Salary: There are many sites that help you understand salary levels. It is a good idea to compare several data points to get a clearer picture.
Negotiate your offer
Approach your negotiation with confidence by demonstrating the unique value you bring to the company!
- Receive an offer: Slow down and take a breath. Express gratitude and clarify the details. Don’t negotiate at the time of the offer, instead understand your deadline for making a decision. Give yourself time to review your research and plan
- Negotiate: Use open-ended question. Bring up the value and experiences you brin. Reaffirm you are excited for the opportunity. Make your counter offer – include a solid number or a range you are hoping for. Get the final offer in writing.
