When offered a position, there are a number of factors that can affect your decision to accept or decline. Before researching companies, salaries, or geographic locations, you will first need to make sure that this type of position is a good fit for your personality and attributes. To do this, the Career Services Office suggests self-assessment (find out more about self-assessment at our Choosing a Major or Career Path page).
After determining whether or not a career would be a good fit for your personality and attributes , more specific details about companies, salaries, and locations can also prove helpful. Such information aids you in determining if a particular environment will be suitable for you. In addition, knowledge of these factors can help you to prepare for the interviewing process. The Career Services Office (Dooling Hall 121) has resources to assist you with this process.
ATTENTION GRADUATING SENIORS: The good news continues to roll in for the Class of 2011 as results from NACE’s Spring 2011 Salary Survey show that the average salary offer to all Class of 2011 graduates now stands at $50,462, which is up 5.9 percent over the overall average of $47,673 to Class of 2010 graduates.
Salary/Cost of Living Resources
Salary Negotiation
Some employers do not negotiate salary with graduating students. Some do. If an employer makes you a salary offer and you are interested in the position, but believe you may have a reason to request a higher salary, do the following:
First, prepare a case based on facts. Facts could include:
• Another higher salary offer you've received. (Be prepared to show evidence of that salary, such as a copy of an offer letter. The employer with whom you're negotiating may want proof.)
• Comparison of the salaries relative to cost of living. Research using salary information resources listed above.
• Don't overlook other forms of compensation in making your comparisons between offers. Consider: benefits, signing bonus or moving allowance, frequency and basis of salary increases over time.
• Your own background and qualifications. If you are asking for an above-average salary, are you above average in your credentials?
Next, if you have a strong case to ask for a higher salary than was offered, present your case:
• Ask the employer, in a tactful and diplomatic way, if the salary offer is open to negotiation. Convey to the employer that you are truly interested in the job. Don't sound as though you are just shopping for the best salary.
• If the employer says no, accept the answer gracefully. You can weigh the options you have.
• Be prepared for the possibility that the employer still may not change the salary offer.
• Present your case tactfully so if the employer doesn't change the salary offer you can still accept the original salary offer if you choose.
For additional information, please read: AcetheInterview.com: Salary Negotiation
*Information adapted from: Salary Questions and Negotiating |
