Do’s and Don’ts for Job Seekers in the Nonprofit World – Negotiating the Job Offer
So they want you! How do you make sure to get started on the right foot?
Do:
1. Know your value. Find out what the salary range is in the field and in this organization. Do specific skills and degrees influence starting salaries? Know they offer you the job because you bring needed value! Check websites like Payscale.com.
2. Start at the top of the range. Research says where you start influences how far up you go as compensation increases. Start at the top in your negotiation.
3. Know what you want. Do you want more dollars, more power, a specific title, more benefits, more vacation time, more flexibility, specific benefits, professional development, and retirement? Use a worksheet to document what you want and be prepared to discuss these.
4. Always negotiate. Think of the job offer discussion as a conversation between equals offering value to one another, not a one-way meeting where you are told what is available.
5. Ask for it in writing. Don’t tempt misunderstanding that can happen in verbal agreements.
Don’t:
1. Forget to ask about employee benefits and perks. Health insurance, access to retirement accounts, and vacation time. Make a list of what you want and know what kinds of things are available. Look at the organization’s employee handbook before you negotiation, if you can.
2. Accept the initial offer. There’s always room for negotiation. And it demonstrates you know your value.
3. Think you have to say yes on the spot. Some people are good on their feet and others need time to digest the information. Ask for time if you need it, or need to consult with someone before you say yes.
4. Ignore the plans for getting started. A good start makes a big difference. Find out what the team has in mind regarding training, onboarding, probation periods, what would success look like.
5. Misunderstand total compensation. Get specific details about gross pay, net pay, benefits, etc. All of these are costs to the employer. Understand your compensation from their side and from your side.
