Should I negotiate my job offer?
I just received an offer that’s at the upper limit of the salary range I initially provided during the interview. However, after delving deeper into the role’s responsibilities, I feel I may have undervalued myself by around 10%. Unfortunately, I can’t compare my offer to a salary range since that information wasn’t included in the job posting.
What do you think: is it worth negotiating? If so, how should I go about initiating that conversation or crafting a follow-up email?
RCadmin
Absolutely, negotiating a job offer is a common practice, especially if you believe your initial salary expectation was lower than what the role warrants. Since you’ve done your research and feel confident about the value you bring to the position, it’s certainly worth having a conversation about it.
Here are some steps to consider for your negotiation:
Be Prepared: Before initiating the conversation, gather any relevant data that supports your request. This could include industry salary benchmarks, data on your skills and experience, and the specific responsibilities of the role that justify a higher pay.
Express Gratitude: Start your conversation or email by thanking them for the offer and expressing your excitement about the opportunity. This sets a positive tone.
State Your Case: Clearly communicate your reasons for requesting a higher salary. Mention the new insights you’ve gained into the role and explain why you believe the initial range you provided doesn’t fully reflect your worth in the context of the responsibilities.
Be Specific but Flexible: While you can mention the percentage you believe is more appropriate, it’s also important to show flexibility and openness. For example, you could ask if there is room to discuss compensation instead of stating a specific number outright.
Close on a Positive Note: Regardless of their response, express your enthusiasm for the role and your eagerness to contribute to the team. This shows professionalism and keeps the relationship positive, no matter the outcome.
Sample Email Draft:
Subject: Job Offer Discussion
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you so much for extending the job offer! I am truly excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific aspect of the company or role you are excited about].
After reflecting on the role and gathering more information about its responsibilities, I wanted to revisit the salary discussion. I initially quoted a range that I now feel may not fully encapsulate the value I bring to this position, especially considering the scope and expectations involved. Based on my research and insights from our conversations, I believe a salary adjustment of around 10% would be more aligned with the role’s demands and my experience.
I hope we can discuss this further, as I am really looking forward to being a part of your team.
Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
By approaching the negotiation thoughtfully, you not only advocate for yourself but also set a tone of mutual respect and collaboration. Good luck!