From A Recruiter: How To Negotiate An Offer

By Erynn Grady

Clinical Career Specialist

Graduation was awesome. You got some flowers and took a bunch of photos.

While cramming for your boards, you were also in the market seeking your first position out of school. By this time, you had a good idea of the population you’d like to be treating, what setting you’d like to be working in, and your list of companies where you have applied.

Fast forward a week or two, and you had a couple of interviews on the calendar.

Let’s rewind a bit, though.

Prior to scheduling the interview with the manager or director, you had the chance to research the companies. You did this so, when you spoke with the recruiter, you sounded well-versed. You were prepared. It is so crucial to be prepared before speaking with anyone that has to do with the interview process – it sets the stage.

How To Prepare

Do your research. Learn the background of the employer. Figure out exactly what they do. Know what makes you want to work for them.

Know what the market is offering compensation-wise. Have a salary range and stick to it!

Ask questions. Ask about health insurance. Ask about 401k. Inquire about paid time off. Learn about continuing education opportunities.

See if there’s a mentorship program! It’s very important as a new grad to know what kind of support you will be getting!

Get an idea for professional growth and ask yourself, “do I have the opportunity to grow roots here?”

This makes it that much easier when an offer transpires.

Congratulations

So you’ve successfully met the required qualifications, navigated the interview process, and even started picturing yourself as an employee. The last step is the biggest and some would even say the most important: negotiating!

Negotiating a job offer can feel rather uncomfortable, especially if it’s your first job out of school. Let’s start simple. Remember this isn’t just about “salary.”

It’s important to understand the various components of your compensation package: salary, PTO, mentorship, health care, continuing education, 401k, professional growth, and any other benefits the company offers.

A Few Don’ts When Negotiating

Don’t be unreasonable. Example: Throughout the process, the salary range was fine. But now, you want $10,000 more.

Don’t wait to speak up. You should be upfront throughout the process about how you feel and what you need.

Don’t make it all about you. Leave your personal situation out of it.

Don’t fabricate other offers. This does not help you in the long run!

Don’t play games. If the recruiter already went back once to get you what you wanted, do not ask again. That can be a major turn off!

When given the offer, thank the employer. It’s in your best interest to hear them out and listen to the offer as a whole before asking for more.

Be sure to gather all of the details and take your time reviewing everything. This way, you can come back to the other recruiter with a well-thought-out explanation about why you are negotiating.

Consistency Is Key

Remember, if you have shown your interest and have also had the same message from day one, you are a trusted candidate. It is easier for a recruiter to go to bat for someone they trust!