Evaluating and Negotiating Offers

Evaluating an Offer

Negotiating an Offer

Consider what you want. What are you looking to get out of this position? Does this job help you toward your career goals? Will this job allow you to fulfill your personal priorities and obligations? Is the organization a fit for your character? Will you be challenged to grow, develop, and learn new skills? Is the hiring package what you were looking for?

Know the company, position, and location. What is the company culture? What is the history and financial standing of the company? What is the companys reputation and image? What are your work schedule options? Do you like your potential supervisor and

their management style? What will your work assignment variety be? What is the pressure and pace of the work and will you be required to work overtime? How far will you commute to work? What are the opportunities for advancement?

Review the salary AND benefits. Great benefits can outweigh a lower salary. What is included in your benefits package - healthcare, dental, vision, retirement (401K)? Also know what fringe benefits are included - vacation/sick time, contin-ued education, stock purchase of savings plan, bonuses, or childcare.

Make a list of pros and cons for the offer. Go through every aspect of your offer(s) and decide the advantages and disadvantages of the position.

Research the going rate for your industry and position. Find out average salaries for similar positions. Look on Mar-shalls career development page for senior placement information and try salary calculator websites such as www.wetfeet.com.

DO NOT name a rate before the employer does. You can say something like I will consider any reasonable offer. Remember to use words like open, negotiable, and competitive when describing your desired salary.

Have a minimum salary in mind. Keep it to yourself, but know what your absolute minimum is.

Dont be overly aggressive. You can be assertive and persuasive without being rude. Remember the person you are negotiating with is a potential supervisor or colleague.

Dont be concerned with what others will think if you negotiate.

Dont be overly concerned with losing an offer if you negotiate.

Dont accept on the spot. Take your time to evaluate the offer and make an informed decision.

Dont begin negotiating before an offer is made. Wait for them to actually give you a job offer with a salary before you try to negotiate.

USC Marshall Undergraduate Student Services Office Hoffman Hall 200 (213) 740 - 5705 ugcareers@marshall.usc.edu

IMPORTANT! Do not accept or reject an offer based on salary alone!! Review the following:

Benefits Packages Salary Growth Potential Company Environment Your Fit to Position Bonuses (Holiday, Etc.)

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Marshall Undergraduates

Important reminders when accepting or declining an offer: Make a timely decision

Call the employer about your decision

Get everything in writing