First Job Salary Negotiation

Negotiating Your First Job Offer

Many entry-level candidates assume they have no leverage to negotiate, but that's not true. Even for your first job, it's appropriate and expected to discuss compensation professionally. The key is doing research so you can make a reasonable request backed by data. Use Glassdoor, Payscale, or industry salary reports to understand typical compensation for entry-level roles in your field and location. If the market range for entry-level marketing coordinators in your city is $45K-$55K and you're offered $45K, you have grounds to ask for $50K. Frame it around market data, not personal need: "Based on my research for entry-level marketing roles in Boston, I was hoping we could discuss a starting salary closer to $50K. Is there flexibility in the offer?"

Balance enthusiasm with advocacy. You don't want to sound ungrateful or entitled, but you also shouldn't accept the first number without discussion. A good script: "I'm really excited about this opportunity and I think I'd be a great fit for the team. I was hoping we could discuss the compensation package. Based on my research and the value I believe I'll bring, I was targeting a starting salary of $52K. Is there room to adjust the offer?" This shows excitement, professionalism, and evidence-based reasoning — not just demanding more money because you want it.

If salary is truly fixed (common in large companies with rigid entry-level bands), shift to negotiating other aspects: PTO, start date (if you need time between jobs), signing bonus, relocation assistance, or a commitment to an earlier performance review. "I understand the starting salary for this level is standardized. Would there be flexibility to start with three weeks of PTO instead of two, given that I'm graduating mid-year and won't accrue much time off initially?" Companies often have more flexibility on non-salary items, especially for entry-level roles where every extra dollar in base pay compounds over time.

Don't be afraid to ask — the worst they can say is no. Employers respect candidates who advocate for themselves professionally, and negotiating won't cost you the offer unless you're unreasonable or aggressive. If they say the offer is final, accept gracefully: "I understand. I'm still very excited about the role and happy to accept the offer as presented." Then move forward with genuine enthusiasm. Your first job salary sets a baseline for your career, so it's worth negotiating when appropriate, but don't let a $2K difference sour a great opportunity. Focus on learning, building skills, and proving your value — that's what will drive your comp significantly higher in the long run.