Negotiating salary

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Negotiating salary
Many 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 "case" 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. See salary relocation calculators, to compare salaries in different locations.
-	Research on the salary ranges and averages for your field:
	-	See the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Salary Survey in Career Services. It is excellent and current information for bachelor's and master's degree new grads. An advisor can help you locate the information you need.
	-	Research other salary information sources.
	-	See the Post-Graduation Report for VT bachelor's new graduates' salaries by major.
-	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.

Also see:
	On Salary Expert.com - 10 Commandments of Salary Negotiations By CareerJournal.com / Wall Street Journal (salaryexpert.com > salary advice > negotiation > 10 commandments...)
	On Salary Expert.com - Where does cost of living come into play? By CareerJournal.com / Wall Street Journal (salaryexpert.com > ask the salary expert> featured questions > where does cost of living...)
	Responding to salary questions - don't be taken by surprise