Negotiation Tips

Congratulations! You have been offered the position. It may seem like the hard part is over, but it is still important to read the offer carefully and consider your value and long-term career goals. Note that the items and resources below do not apply to all job offers. Get advice from your mentors and knowledgeable colleagues about how to approach any negotiation – the potential employer also has the option of withdrawing an offer if your terms seem out of bounds for the position or untenable for the organization. Evaluate the entire offer…not just the salary!

Base Salary
Research the salary of comparable positions in the area, taking into consideration your skill set.

Relocation, Commute, Parking
What will it cost to go to work on a daily basis?
If relocating, what is the cost of living difference and the cost of moving?
Cost of Living Calculator

Professional Development
Annual financial contribution, conference attendance, professional membership, certifications/trainings available

Education Benefits
Tuition reimbursement or financial help for college for your children/family members

Work Schedule
Flexible work schedules or opportunities to telecommute

Paid Time Off
How do they calculate paid time off, sick vs. vacation and days the organization is closed? Is it “use it or lose it”? Do they cover paternity/maternity leave?

Retirement Contribution
Types of plans, minimum/maximum contribution, time to being vested, company match/contribution

Healthcare Coverage
Monthly co-pays, types of coverage

Research Funds/Start-Up
How are start-up funds offered: lump sum, funded from list/proposal, etc.? How long will funds be available? Are there scenarios in which you might lose your start-up funding (grant award, etc.)?

When to Negotiate

Often negotiation begins before a formal written offer is made. However, to ensure all parties are working with the same set of information, always get everything in writing before negotiating.
Read more about evaluating and negotiating a job offer from start to finish.

What is negotiable?

Before negotiating, remember that you are taking a risk and the way you negotiate is just as important as what you choose to negotiate. Be specific and clear about your needs and never negotiate if you have no intentions of taking the position.

  • Relocation or Travel Reimbursement, Housing and / or travel to find housing
  • Start Date
  • Salary
  • Flextime or Telecommuting
  • Stock Options
  • Bonuses (Signing or Annual)
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Teaching Requirements and Research Leave
  • Service Commitments
  • Pre-tenure leave, time to tenure
  • Start up Package: office space, laboratory facilities, computer(s)/software, teaching/research assistance, research funds, conference travel.

For reference, see this job offer evaluation/negotiation worksheet.

How to Negotiate

  1. Have an action plan before you start negotiating.
  2. Don’t fixate on one portion. If the employer states that salary is less flexible, negotiate other benefits.
  3. Get everything in writing.
  4. Use professional language and maintain composure through all communication. Practice with someone verbally or have a trusted colleague read written communication before sending to ensure tone/goal are appropriate.
  5. If you cannot reach a mutual agreement, you have the option to reject the offer. Do not feel pressured to accept an offer if the compensation package does not reflect your worth and meet your needs.