Really want the job, but salary too low? Need advice
Just graduated undergrad- I successfully interviewed for a position that I really want, but it is a very small shop (3-5 people) and the salary is 50% under competitive pay. The pay is survivable, but the workload and the salary isn't right as I will most likely be working quite a bit. I made 25% more working as an intern at a FLDP program.
Like I said, I really want to work at this shop, but I know I could work for a F50 firm for twice the amount, although the work experience will be different and not what I am looking for in the long run. I would be satisfied with below industry average because I want this work experience.
I am planning to negotiate politely- any thoughts or words of advice?
I negotiated pay, and got an additional approx. 8% out of the firm. I used anchoring I went for an above market number that I thought was unlikely, but not nuts. We met somewhere in the middle, I focused on the value add I provided, my unique background. They quickly gave me a very reasonable number especially considering the low COL where I'm working. But the firm in my case was paying me well to start with and I pushed for and got an above market salary. A good firm isn't going to mind spending to get the talent that they want.
No harm in negotiating, but if they refuse to change their number, I'd suggest you to still accept the offer. I took my current gig for a salary way lower than market, and this when I was told upfront that the hours will be bad. But the job was a dream role for a fresh grad, so I went ahead anyways.
Bottomline is, be extremely sure that you will be happy working at this place. Working in a small office isn't easy - don't underestimate the value of having a good group to shoot the shit with. Additionally, you need to make sure that you'll actually get good work. If those pieces fit into place, don't let money get in the way this early on in the game. You can spend a year or two at this place and then leverage your relevant experience to lateral to a better paying job.
I agree with this, take this into account. Also, if there is no other junior person in the office you have no one to bounce ideas or ask what will seem like dumb questions to your seniors.
There was a really good guest post on negotiating sometime around March, check that out. Be polite and do your research. If your really want the job, take it. It seems like it could be some good experience.
Even if you have to start with the low salary, you can always demand a raise a year or two into the job and leverage other offers/leaving for market pay to get them to avoid turnover.
Thanks for the advice everyone. Tried to negotiate pay over the phone when potential boss called today- (s)he didn't budge at all after I focused on my value add (also practiced a pitch to sell myself). I still want the experience so I think I can tough it out for a year, but at the same time does this show something about the work culture, maybe saying something about management? The reasoning was there is no room in the budget for increase.
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