You’ve landed your first job offer—congrats! Now comes the next challenge: how to negotiate salary as an entry-level candidate. It might seem like salary negotiation is out of reach, and that you should simply accept what's offered. But the reality is, you can and should negotiate.
Understanding how to do it early in your career is an essential skill that ensures you’re fairly compensated from the start. In this article, we’ll show you how to approach the conversation confidently and provide valuable tips for negotiating your entry-level salary.
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Can you negotiate an entry-level salary? What you need to know
When you're starting your career, the idea of negotiating an entry-level salary can feel intimidating. Many people wonder whether asking for a higher salary is even appropriate when you're just beginning your professional journey. The good news is that negotiating a salary is not only possible, but it can also set the tone for how you’re valued in your career.
Sure, there are some factors to consider before entering into any salary discussions. Career coach Amanda Augustine from TopResume shares key points to help you determine when and how to approach salary negotiations.
Evaluate the job description and employer expectations
Before you consider negotiating, take a closer look at the job description and what you’ve learned about the role during the interview. Did the listing provide a salary range? What experience, skills, or knowledge are essential for this position? If you have the experience they’re seeking, it may be easier to make a case for a higher salary.
Research salary data for the role
Next, check out salary data for the role using resources like PayScale, Career.io, and Glassdoor. Don’t forget to consider the company’s industry, size, and location. “For example, a role in a major city like New York typically pays more than the same role in a smaller, rural town,” Augustine says. Knowing the average salary range for your position helps to determine if the offer is reasonable for both your experience and the industry standard.
Assess your qualifications and the salary range
Even though many entry-level jobs don’t require extensive experience, compare your skills and qualifications to what the employer expects.
“If they’re looking for zero to five years of experience and you have a year of relevant internship experience, your offer will likely fall at the lower end of the pay range,” Augustine says. If the offer is near the bottom of that range, negotiating may be worthwhile. If it’s closer to or above the top end, you might want to hold off on asking for more.
Consider the full offer—not just salary
When looking at your job offer, don’t just focus on the salary—consider the whole package. Sure, salary matters, but benefits can make a big difference too. “Health insurance, retirement plans, bonuses, vacation days, and professional development opportunities can add significant value,” Augustine says. Remote-work flexibility can be another valuable perk that improves your overall work-life balance. By understanding the full offer, you’ll be in a better position to decide whether negotiating is the right move for you.
Ready to get started? Here’s how to negotiate an entry-level salary
Let’s say you’ve already done your homework and realized that negotiating your salary is not only reasonable but necessary to ensure you're fairly compensated for the skills and potential you bring to the role. Now it’s time to have that conversation. Here are some effective strategies to approach your salary negotiation with confidence.
Express appreciation and excitement
Start the conversation by showing gratitude for the offer and excitement about the role. For example: “Thank you for this offer. I’m really excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team!”
Highlight your unique qualifications
Emphasize what makes you stand out, like your education, relevant internships, skills, or certifications that go beyond the job’s basic requirements. This shows why you're worth a higher salary.
Make your case for a higher salary
Based on your research and qualifications, suggest a salary range that feels more in line with your expectations. For example: “Based on my research and the responsibilities of this role, I was hoping for something closer to [specific range]. Is there any flexibility in the offer?”
Stay professional
When negotiating salary, keep the conversation focused and professional. Augustine highlights that you should not apologize for making your request or try to justify it based on personal circumstances like student loans. “Your request should always be based on what you bring to the table and what the data is telling you about the current market rates,” she says.
Prepare for a firm response
While it’s always worth asking, be ready for the possibility that the employer may say the salary is non-negotiable. If this happens, you’ll need to decide if you're OK with it or if you'd like to walk away.
Consider asking for other benefits
If salary negotiation isn’t an option, you can request additional perks that add value to your offer, such as a performance review cycle in six months instead of a year, flexible work options, or additional training and professional development opportunities.
Entry-level salary negotiation: Examples
It's always important to start the conversation with appreciation for the offer and enthusiasm about the role. Here’s how to begin:
Thank you for extending the offer. I’m really excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and start my career with your company.
When presenting your case based on research
Once you’ve established your excitement for the role, you can start talking about the salary. Show that you’ve done your research and understand what’s reasonable for your position and location:
Based on my research of similar roles in this area and my background, I was hoping for a salary in the range of [specific range]. Given the responsibilities and the skills I bring to the table, I feel this range is a fair reflection of the position. Is there flexibility in the offer?
When the employer says the salary is fixed
Sometimes, employers will say that the salary is firm. If that happens, you can try negotiating other aspects of the offer or politely reiterate your value. Here’s a way to respond:
I understand if there’s limited flexibility with the starting salary. However, I would appreciate it if we could revisit the salary after a performance review in six months, based on my contributions and growth in the role.
When discussing benefits and other perks
If salary negotiations aren't moving, try discussing other benefits that would make the offer more appealing:
If adjusting the salary isn’t possible, I’d be open to discussing other benefits, such as a more flexible work schedule. These could make a big difference in my overall job satisfaction and work-life balance.
When you decide to walk away
In some cases, you may choose to politely walk away if the terms don’t meet your needs. Here’s how to handle it:
I appreciate the offer, but after careful consideration, I’ve decided that it’s not the right fit for me at this time. I hope we can keep in touch for future opportunities.
When you decide to accept the offer
If you want to accept the offer even without a salary adjustment, you can respond:
I appreciate the offer, and while the salary isn’t exactly what I was hoping for, I’m excited to join the team and start contributing to the company’s success. Thank you for working with me through this process, and I’m eager to get started and grow in the role.
Read this next: How to Respond to a Job Offer via Email (With Examples)
Kickstart your career with confidence
Negotiating your salary as an entry-level candidate can be a challenge, but it’s an important skill that sets the tone for your career. By doing your research, highlighting your strengths, and focusing on the value you bring, you can confidently navigate the conversation.
Even if salary adjustments aren’t possible, remember that other benefits, like flexible hours or professional development opportunities, can make a big difference in your job satisfaction. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself—this is just the beginning of your professional journey!
FAQs
Is it appropriate to negotiate my salary for an entry-level position?
Yes, absolutely! While it may seem daunting, negotiating your salary as an entry-level candidate is not only possible but encouraged. Employers often expect candidates to negotiate, and it shows that you’re serious about your value and career. Just make sure to do your research, know your worth, and approach the conversation professionally.
How do I know if I’m asking for too much?
The key is to do your homework. Research salary ranges for your role in your specific location using tools like PayScale, Career.io, and Glassdoor. Compare the salary offer with the industry standards and your qualifications. If the offer is close to or within the range, you're likely on track. If you're unsure, aim for a range that aligns with your skills and the role's responsibilities.
What should I do if the salary offer is non-negotiable?
If the employer says the salary is fixed, don’t be discouraged! Consider asking for other benefits that could improve your overall compensation package, such as flexible work hours, professional development opportunities, or a performance review cycle in six months instead of a year. It’s all about finding ways to make the offer work for you, even if the salary itself can’t be adjusted.