Should I Negotiate My Salary Offer?
After being laid off twice in the last two years, I’ve finally received a job offer! However, the compensation package seems to undervalue my 10 years of experience in digital marketing.
Here’s a breakdown of the offer:
Job Title: Digital Marketing Manager
Compensation:
– Hourly Rate: $25.75/hour
– Payment Schedule: Weekly via direct deposit
– Overtime: Not applicable
Benefits:
– Health Insurance: Eligible for enrollment after 90 days of employment; only employee coverage is provided—dependents are out-of-pocket.
– Sick Days: Accrual begins after 120 days.
– Paid Time Off (PTO): 5 business days after the first year.
– Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM with a 30-minute lunch.
– Performance Review: Three-week trial period followed by a six-month review, then annually.
I’m considering negotiating the offer, but I’m uncertain whether to do this before or after the three-week trial period.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
RCadmin
Congratulations on receiving a job offer! It’s understandable to be cautious about negotiating, especially after experiencing layoffs. However, given your extensive experience in digital marketing and the disparity between that and the compensation, it’s definitely worth pursuing a negotiation.
Here are some points to consider:
Timing of Negotiation: It’s usually best to negotiate before accepting the offer rather than after the trial period. Once you start working, there’s a chance that the company might feel less inclined to change the terms, and it could create awkwardness early on. You want to ensure you’re starting on the right foot with the compensation you believe reflects your worth.
Research Market Rates: Take the time to research the average salary for a Digital Marketing Manager in your area or industry, specifically for someone with your level of experience. Websites like Glassdoor, PayScale, or LinkedIn Salary Insights can provide useful benchmarks.
Prepare Your Case: When you negotiate, be prepared to explain why you’re worth more than the initial offer. Highlight your 10 years of experience, any specific skills or accomplishments that set you apart, and how you can add value to the company.
Be Open and Flexible: While your primary focus may be on salary, consider other aspects of the compensation package. For example, you could discuss signing bonuses, additional PTO, a more favorable performance review timeline, or benefits that may enhance your overall compensation.
Practice Your Pitch: Before you engage in negotiations, practice what you want to say. Be confident but respectful. Remember that negotiation is a common part of the hiring process, and most employers expect it.
Prepare for a Range of Outcomes: While you should advocate for what you deserve, also prepare yourself for different possibilities. If they’re unable to meet your salary request, consider what other aspects of the offer are essential to you and if you’re willing to compromise.
Remember, negotiating is not just about getting more money; it’s also about ensuring that you’re entering a role where you feel valued and appropriately compensated for your expertise. Good luck!