I will probably soon be offered a job I’m interviewing for that I would like but the salary is abysmally low.

Cautious

February 21,2024 at 4:49PM UTC

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I will probably soon be offered a job I’m interviewing for that I would like but the salary is abysmally low.

It’s a remote job with a university in their development office as their prospect manager and researcher. This would be my fourth university in a similar role so I have lots of experience and they know it. I knew the salary was low as it was stated in the job posting but I went ahead and applied anyway because 1) I need a job and 2) I thought let’s see if I even get a call before I think about the low salary as they may not even call me. When the HR scheduler did call about an interview she asked if I was ok with the salary range as that is what “is standard for their area/state (southern Illinois, I live in Michigan) but maybe not other areas.” I said I was ok with it as I didn’t think that would not be an appropriate time to dicker about salary, I’d knock myself right out of the running before I even had a chance at the interview. The job duties are extensive but all things I can do, have done well and enjoy doing. The education requirements were “B.A. preferred” which means they would take someone with just a h.s. diploma which is crazy as no one would be able to get a prospect reach job with a college degree. It also stated “1-3 years experience” which, again, is crazy as it takes years and years of experience to get the background they are asking for. So, my question is do I have any salary negotiating power after I did say the salary range was ok with me?

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AnonymousFebruary 21,2024 at 6:01PM UTC
Given that it's a university, likely not much room for negotiating. Part of me think the JD is written for an immigration case.
AnonymousFebruary 21,2024 at 7:05PM UTC
Please tell me you aren't here to promote some MLM or other. I see you have already started spamming multiple posts.
CautiousFebruary 21,2024 at 8:27PM UTC
Thank you for your responses. I have a masters agree. And I got the offer this morning after I posted my question here on fairygodboss. They said they decided to forgo the second interview and they have already called my references. The benefits include medical and dental and start on the first day of the first month you are hired in. Their retirement contribution only kicks in after two years of employment (!) but you can contribute your own $ immediately which in my case would be small since the salary is low. I have yet to call them back and response to their offer letter as I am still deciding if I should just accept it or try to have the confidence to negotiate. That may turn them off and they’d rescind the offer. It’s a risk.
Cindy GloverFebruary 21,2024 at 8:55PM UTC
How much will you save on gas?
is the laptop and phone provided?
and paid for?
how much will you save in clothes?
can you dedicate a room as a home office?(tax deduction)
then see the difference if any apply to you
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 1:13PM UTC
After receiving the offer letter, see if you can bump up the salary. They may give you other perks instead but you can always take the job, continue interviewing elsewhere and see what happens (if you are in need of a job with benefits).
Yes, at the time, the salary was ok for you (even if it wasn't) but given all your interviews and what you can bring to the role, they would be silly to not even expect a question regarding salary or benefits.
Good luck!
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 1:26PM UTC
You can always negotiate. Do your research and just tell them based on your responsibilities and experience you’re looking for between x and y and see what happens. Don’t forget about PTO, 401k, signing bonus etc
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 2:29PM UTC
The salary bands are generally fixed if it is a state university, as they have a strict budget to go by. If the job requirements are so far out of bounds, you may have to go to a more senior level to get any bump in pay. Check their website and see if they have something with the same JD but a more senior one, and see where that gets you.
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 3:02PM UTC
University budgets are usually very tight, as you should already know, If they are willing to take a non-degreed employee than thay may also speak to the offered wage, rightfully so. Not sure why you applied to be honest. Yes, always negotiate, but please don't waste their time.
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 4:05PM UTC
As a recruiter, it's important that I confirm salary expectations before presenting someone for a job. If the chosen candidate said they were good with the stated range, then changes that position at the end, it doesn't bode well for anyone (candidate, hiring manager or recruiter). A better option is to have an open and honest conversation with the person asking about salary expectations up front. If it's below your range, ask for more information -- what other benefits are included with that base salary? Are there bonuses? What is the opportunity for growth and a salary increase? If it's way off and you truly are not open -- it's better to pass on the opportunity that you would say no to anyway. But if there is a chance you are willing to consider the salary range, then go for it. You can always try to negotiate, but be realistic on the number that you land on ... it may be a bit higher -- but will it be high enough?
Last thought -- The "preferred" mention on job descriptions allows a company to be open to that candidate who has deep experience without a degree. I have witnessed very smart and talented people whose lives did not allow them to go to college when they were young -- yet they thrived and learned and grew professionally. Why not consider someone who has the deep experience and skill?
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 6:01PM UTC
No, definitely no or not much, you walked the path with them, you agreed to the salary range they said they could offer and if you get the offer it's either take it or not.
Be grateful that you get the job if you truly need the job, it is remote, no commute and likely that if you need more money you could find a side gig that would align with it and fill in the financial gap. If that or just taking this role which seems to be something you would be a fit for is not going to work let it go to someone else who won't complain about the money and will be happy to get work and not jerk them around.
AnonymousFebruary 23,2024 at 4:16AM UTC
That's a little harsh.
AnonymousFebruary 23,2024 at 6:17PM UTC
I agree with the responder. Absolutely not, if the shoe were on the other foot she would be complaining about the company not doing right by her. Sometimes hearing truth makes you rethink actions that could have been done differently. She is NOT going to get them to suddenly give her the money she wants just because she wants it. She should have been honest up front about her needs because at the start of any good relationship being truthful is the best way to start. She was not that.
AnonymousFebruary 22,2024 at 7:30PM UTC
Sorry, there's no room for negotiation in salary for university administration positions. But, the benefits usually will make up for it and it is possible that if you take the job, in a few years you could get regraded to a position with a higher salary. I've been in university staff positions for 10+ years and had to explain it to a few people. Don't walk away from this, especially if you want to further your education, since you could do it at no/low cost.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 1:28PM UTC
I work for in university administration and negotiated my current position. Don't be mistaken. Employers need you as much as you need them. Some are so dysfunctional they have to pay more. Academia has become very dysfunctional. Retire asap!
anon3796February 22,2024 at 10:38PM UTC
There is a little room to negotiate, but not much. Negotiate as much as possible so that you do not resent taking the job at a salary you already know is too little. Some times development jobs get bonuses, which might not be shown as part of the salary range.
AnonymousFebruary 23,2024 at 4:15AM UTC
So I totally get you and have done the same (apply for jobs just to see if I would get an interview knowing I wouldn't take it). So it doesn't seem like the salary is going to change thus you can take the job since you need one and keep working (knowing you will be miserable and not fairly compensated and they will be getting a steal), not take it, ask about the salary and know that it might knock you out / they may rescind. Good Luck. It is tough out there: many employers are playing this game where they want you to be their slave basically.
Lomaxruiter@yahoo.comFebruary 23,2024 at 1:46PM UTC
The recruiter asked you about the salary range to ensure s/he wasn’t wasting anyone’s time. S/he wanted to ensure you were aware and ok with the range before proceeding with the interview process. Its best to be upfront from the beginning.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 4:06AM UTC
This happened to me once, my last job. I got hired and the salary was low but because it was local i Wanted it. However, a few days before I was offered another position in NYC for way more and I accepted it. When the local job offered me the position, I didn't negotiate the salary and said yes BUT then said well I have another offer at xyz dollars higher. The HR lady got nasty and said what are you doing? I should have kicked myself for not negotiating first off, they got me cheap for 10 years and I had way more responsibilities and reports than the other assistants making more than me plus I had an MBA and experience. But to be local and my parents were going downhill and to avoid NYC I took it and backed off. Be careful they may rescind if you say something
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 1:18PM UTC
Hey, if you want to go work for free. Go work for free. If the company was looking to hire for retention the salary wouldn't be such an insult.
Replace the word money with energy and time. What's your energy and time worth to you?
Don't let others make their problems your problems.
If I was a business owner, I'd do better than ask my future employee about money. Teach them how to treat you. That without you, they don't have a company.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 1:52PM UTC
So I work in HR as a comp consultant.
When the recruiter called to screen you and mentioned the salary range you said you were ok with it. If you actually weren’t or thought it was low you should have said so. Something like “ I am interested in the position but would need to be at the higher end of the range given my education and experience.” Or “I have been interviewing for positions between $ and $$ range.” You still have power to negotiate but don’t get crazy. I do salary admin for my employer and we try to make the best offer the first and typically entertain 1 counteroffer. Not every company/employer does that but it’s a good rule of thumb. Also you can ask about the hiring range vs the job market range. Hiring range is usually a smaller section of the hiring range. IE office assistant market range may be $20/hr -$30/hr but the hiring range is $20/hr to $24/hr or $22/hr to $26/hr based. When/if they offer you a low amount. Respond with gratefulness that they made an offer then respond with the amount you want and all the reasons you are worth it, education, years experience, certifications, job posting bullet points that you have experience in doing. Hope you find this helpful.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 2:01PM UTC
You said, when asked by HR about the salary being offered, you said were ok with the salary, which was also mentioned in the job posting.
So what's the problem????
HR has been 100% transparent about the salary being offered, which is to be applauded! If you don't like the salary being offered, then don't take the job, and next time, don't apply or "lie" that the salary being offered is ok. Be honest!
(Once you say the salary being offered is "okay," you have no leverage to negotiate a higher salary.)
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 3:13PM UTC
Don’t 100% agree, I work in recruiting and what’s listed in the JD, isn’t always portrayed the same as in the interview process. This could cause a shift in what the comp should be. Not saying that’s the exact case here, and while they should have presented some caution about the comp in the initial HR call, sometimes it takes the qualified candidate to realize the hiring company’s budget is not actually in line with what they’re asking to be accomplished by this role. You always have power to negotiate.
MichelleFebruary 24,2024 at 3:45PM UTC
That's not true.
She CAN negotiate salary once she's found out more about the position and what she brings to the table, like Shelley said.
Companies are severely low-balling salaries these days in hopes to get EVERYTHING for nothing.
Shelly KatzeffFebruary 24,2024 at 3:20PM UTC
Since you are obviously extremely experienced, enjoy the work entailed, and possess a college degree, you are highly desirable and will offer them more than what they are expecting. With that said, if you do not negotiate for a more equitable salary NOW, when the time is ripe, you will have missed the opportunity. I would wait until they offer you the position and then reiterate your qualifications and what you will be doing for THEM, and then ask the recruiter to request a higher starting salary.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 3:40PM UTC
I took a job once that was about $5k less than a job in a very negative environment. In 4 years I was making $7K more than the first job. However, if you can negotiate!
MichelleFebruary 24,2024 at 4:02PM UTC
Well, for starters, you're assuming you're going to get an offer.
And if you do, don't jump on the offer straight away, tell them that you need a couple days to think about it and when you get back to them, you could tell them that after learning more about the position, you would be more comfortable with whatever amount it is that you're seeking and THEN, you need to HIGHLIGHT WHAT you bring to the table and WHY you're worth that amount.
They might be ok with it or they might not.
If they tell you that there's no negotiating it, then you need to decide if you want to work for nothing, or walk away, because if you take a low-ball offer, it also affects your ability to negotiate salary raises in the future as well.
Perhaps you should research salary negotiationing on YouTube, it's quite informative. I research it all the time, because I'm finding that since covid ended, companies are low-balling salaries across the board, hoping to get EVERYTHING for nothing.
Becky MacDickenFebruary 24,2024 at 5:36PM UTC
You can't get what you don't ask for. Try to negotiate if you do get an offer.
AnonymousFebruary 25,2024 at 6:45PM UTC
Know that universities have strict ranges and are often not able to accommodate. I agree with having good benefits and remote work can make it a little more worth it
MichelleFebruary 26,2024 at 7:19PM UTC
That's true to a certain degree, because you can't pay your bills with benefits.
AnonymousFebruary 24,2024 at 7:11PM UTC
The end of Lester year I applied for a job in my field. When i was called and was given the range and asked if I was ok with it, I told them I would be on the top end. I had the phone screening with HR and the hiring manager before going onsite for the interviews which went very well. The job went to someone else and I can only think it was because they would have been cheaper.
MichelleFebruary 26,2024 at 7:17PM UTC
You shouldn't have told them your range was at the top end. All you need to tell them is that they're within your range and THEN, if you get an offer, then you tell them what you want, if it's lower than what you need.
You don't ever show your hand.
I always say that "I'm negotiable." Especially if it's not in my salary range and then, if I get an offer, I tell them that I'd be more comfortable at xyz salary and negotiate from there.
But I don't accept offers straight away either.
I tell them that I need time to 'think' about it first.
Lee Of LincolnFebruary 24,2024 at 9:33PM UTC
Why did you even apply if the salary is so below what you would be happy with? I can’t think of a single good reason for accepting this job. It is a trap.
ChrishoggFebruary 25,2024 at 4:58PM UTC
https://www.asktheheadhunter.com/8301/only-naive-wusses-are-afraid-to-bring-up-money
AnonymousFebruary 25,2024 at 6:09PM UTC
yes, you absolutely have negotiating power! But this is going to be a balancing act, for you....you NEED a job, and this one offers a "remote" /work from home opportunity, which is pretty sweet. Also, I'm going to guess that with the current recession, this type of role isn't going to pay super great ANYWHERE, unless it's Harvard (kidding, not kidding). I mean, people are getting laid off all over the place if you check LinkedIn. So the ball is in your court. Can you negotiate for higher? Yes. Can you get alot more? Likely not. Universities are ALL STRUGGLING. If it's got a decent benefit pkg, remote work, you "can do it" (you said that you can) and it's work that you know and like...I would say yes and "try" to get a little more money. FYI: I have alot of professional friends who have gone from Six Figures to 44K/year and are HAPPY to get a job these days. Yep, I know it stinks. Been there/done that. Good luck!!!!
AnonymousFebruary 26,2024 at 3:20PM UTC
Hmmm...I'm not sure why you even applied to this job in the first place? You knew there was a very good chance you would be moved forward and offered the position based off your background and experience. The hiring side was probably so happy to be able to get such a qualified candidate at the salary they are able to pay. Of course you would try to negotiate but I wouldn't be surprised if the company is not able to give you what you ask for.
AnonymousFebruary 26,2024 at 7:25PM UTC
And what is she supposed to say when she takes a crappy paying job and she keeps looking, when they ask her if she's working currently, why is she looking so soon?
Companies put a lot of money into hiring and training a new hire and they look at it as 'job hopping' if you put them on your resume, or they look at it as you're 'using' them as a 'stepping stone' and they don't want to hire you.Just like you're not supposed to talk negatively about a past employer, even if the job was toxic.
It's a very slippery slope.
She needs to learn how to negotiate salary
AnonymousFebruary 27,2024 at 4:43PM UTC
I feel like I've come across this issue multiple times this year. Jobs that should have been paying $100k offering $60k. Honestly, my answer is it depends how badly you need a job. I've tried to negotiate on a few of these at the end of the process when it became clear it literally wasn't worth taking the job at what they're paying, but now I'm planning to just accept whatever I can get when I get my next offer because the market is so bad.
CautiousFebruary 27,2024 at 8:29PM UTC
To all who responded to my original post, once again, I thank you so much. You offered some really good advice on how to negotiate. And I plan on using it in the future. Although I was not able to use it (right now) because it was a university job and yes, I know/knew that if a university has posted a salary range then there really is not much ability to negotiate. And so I did not even try to negotiate because I really need a job, it is remote which is what I want and I was a bit fearful that if I did try to ask for more money they may take the offer off the table and say “bye.” Currently I have no income, and am living off my savings so I figured some money is better than none. So, I accepted the position and will start this Friday as that way my health insurance will kick in, which is another reason I accepted this job. I am single and have had no health insurance for the last six months. Scary. This job process went so quickly. I saw it posted on February 1st , applied on the 1st, had a six person zoom interview on 2/19 and was offered the job the next day. I figure I can always keep looking for a better job and I will certainly do that. If I lam lucky enough to find a better paying position in a few months with better retirement benefits, too, (theirs don’t start for two years (!) then I will take it and use the salary negotiation advice offered.
AnonymousFebruary 29,2024 at 1:16AM UTC
Big congrats!!! You're a wise woman...wishing you great success!!!
AnonymousFebruary 27,2024 at 7:18PM UTC
I had this happen to me today. Offering $17-$21 per hour for an Admin Coordinator, which I just can't accept. This is because that was the salary level offered to me as an Admin Assistant B six years ago. An AC is a step up in responsibility, so the salary should at least start at $21. I live in a larger city and this is at a large university with no remote work for this position. If I was living outside of town, the pay would be eaten up by commuting costs. I really do need to get back to work, but I do need a good salary for it to be worthwhile.
Liz MilneFebruary 27,2024 at 8:40PM UTC
When they asked, you should have said 'It's a little on the low side, to be honest' - maybe they can find the extra $$ for the right candidate. If you *now* ask for more, it's going to be awkward... Which is not to say you can't, just that you've put yourself on the wrong foot.