I was just offered a position, and the salary was lower than expected. I have experience in this industry and would like to ask for $15K more. How do I ask for this?

7 Comments

1. AnonymousJune 18,2024 at 2:44PM UTC

   There are probably people with more expertise in this area, but on the salary negotiation, I'd say that 5-10% increase is within reason, and qualify your decision based on what you bring that is unique and your value in the marketplace. This is one area that women struggle with as we're not wired to boast about ourselves the same way as men.

   As for the vacation - if you can go without the week of pay, then take your vacation first. You'll be free from any work-related stress, and know that you'll be coming home to a new job.

   If you will already qualify for PTO, when you start then it might make sense to start a week before to get the ball rolling and collect an extra paycheck.

2. Liz WhitcombJune 18,2024 at 2:49PM UTC

   Do you know that the industry will pay 15K more for your experience? Get some data and ask, the worst they can say is no.

   About the vacation: when/if you accept the position, mention the vacation and offer both options.

3. Remi GibbsJune 18,2024 at 3:27PM UTC

   As an employee you have the most power when starting a job and leaving one. Ask for the money. The worst they can say is no, and you also have the option to decline the position. Also, be open and honest up front and let them decide about the week off.

4. AnonymousJune 18,2024 at 3:42PM UTC

   You should ask about bonuses, stock and review cycles. Let them know that while you are flattered by their offer you hoped for more and wondered if there is some flexibility. You could say I hoped for 7.20 more per hour. That is the 15K but you have reduced it to a small number which makes it easier to say. Worst case they come back with something in between. If not your decision should be for the long term. Don't blow it up by being negative when speaking about their offer because they might pull it away if you do.

   As for the vacation once you finalize the offer discuss the time off and let them know you will take it unpaid if you have not accrued time off yet. Don't wait to start as that too may cause them to reconsider you.

5. Anne KrookJune 18,2024 at 3:54PM UTC

   show them the standard salary range for that role in your area with your expertise and time in role. If they are not willing to increase the salary, you have to be willing to walk away. The question is whether you are will to and can afford to get pegged to a lower starting salary than you deserve. Keep in mind how this will impact your retirement savings, matching contributions from the company if any, and your record of Social Security contributions

6. Nadia Ibrahim-Taney, MS. MA. M.Ed.June 18,2024 at 6:35PM UTC

   As long as you can specifically point to elevated experience, skills, abilities, results above and beyond the position, it's worth asking. If you simply feel you deserve more money than they are offering but can't say way, it likely won't convince them... come in with reasons why YOU are exceptional. Not the entire industry but you specifically.

7. AnonymousJune 18,2024 at 7:29PM UTC

   Thank you so much. I am able to justify it. I added in the information about my experience in the field and asked for a little more money.

   I also told them about vacation. I can start before that but I thought starting and stopping would be an issue but if they are ok with it, I'll do it.