Negotiating

Negotiating is advocating for what you need. These resources will help you negotiate a job offer effectively. We recommend familiarizing yourself with the basics even before you receive an offer.

The Negotiation Process

Expand each item below to learn more about aspects of the negotiation process. To learn about negotiating for postdoc and faculty positions, please see these resources:

Timeline to prepare for negotiating

During the interview:

  • Assess the position and organization to find out if they meet your requirements for considering the position further or if there are any dealbreakers.

After the interview:

  • In order to prepare for negotiation, imagine you say "yes" to an offer with what you know right now and think about what that means for yourself (and those affected by your decision). This can help inform what you should ask about later in the negotiation.
    • How well do you sleep imagining you accepted this offer?

Before getting an offer:

  • Be ready to express enthusiasm, but not make any decisions on the call.
  • Prepare some language to ask for the offer in an email, and a few days to study the offer before you talk again.

Before you have a negotiation conversation:

  • Prepare a list of questions you still have (e.g. expectations, salary) that will help you make sure you have everything you need when you start your new position.
Different ways you might receive an offer

The "Rushed" Offer

An offer is ready for you and the hiring manager needs you to accept it right now.

  • There is usually little room to negotiate
  • This may be a way to pressure candidates before they get a better offer

You may be able to delay by a few days, but get ready to make a quick decision.

The "Negotiable" Offer

An offer is being prepared and the hiring manager needs more information from you.

  • The hiring manager is going to send you an offer, describe it on the call, and ask if it works for you
  • It is likely that the hiring manager is expecting you to ask to make changes to the offer
  • This is usually how negotiations start

You are probably not expected to accept right now.

What You Can Negotiate

Visit this page to learn about the things people commonly negotiate for, including salary, job title, time, and more.

How to Negotiate an Offer

Visit this page to see strategies for having a negotiation conversation, navigating multiple offers, and turning down an offer. 

Watch our video to learn about negotiation skills specifically for industry scientist positions!

Already have an offer? Make a 1:1 appointment to discuss your strategy with one of our career consultants! If you need to meet with us sooner than our next available appointment, please email [email protected] and let us know about your deadline.