When to negotiate?

[anewconvert]

This seems a pretty straightforward question, but one that has left me a bit confused.  So, as a new grad, when specifically is the time in the process to negotiate the compensation package?  Obviously it is not on the first interview, and it is not after you have signed the dotted line, but where in the process is the appropriate time?

 

Is it after I have told them I want the job, but before the paperwork is finished?

 

 

Or is it before I verbally accept the offer?

 

 

In two interviews now I have been given informal offers, but nothing specifically in writing.  One interview I was shown a theoretical benefits package.  In the other I was sent an email saying "we'd like to extend you an offer for the position with salary of XXXXX dollars and a night differential to be decided on after the schedule is worked out, here is the benefits package"

 

 

So when in the process do I say "Thank you for the offer. I'd like to talk about :insert part up for negotiation:"  This isn't totally specific to me, but a question that I have heard asked by multiple classmates in conversation.

[crossbone2007]

Once they send you the letter offer that is when you negotiate. You either accept the offer, counter offer or reject the offer.

When you counter offer, make sure you give them data. For example if in your state/area/speciality the starting salary is 95k but the offer you 90k, you counter offer with 98k or somewhere in 90 percentile of salary range.

However, if they offer you 96k which is above the starting salary, it might be difficult to counter offer. It all depends on area, speciality, and your interest.

 

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