Let's talk pay.
I recently interviewed for a small-time sophomore internship that I was referred to by my professor. The guy is working solo on a $500 million real estate investment project. I was originally going to have a $15 an hour full-time internship, but the company was ought and my position was eliminated last week.
During the interview, I regrettably said that I'd probably be willing to accept $10 an hour. The job would have me working 20 hours a week. Normally that'd be fine, but this summer that is what I need to barely cover my living expenses. I would have almost no money leftover for fun summer activities or to hold me over into the school year.
Now, I realize I fucked up and should never allow myself to be sold short in an interview. Lesson learned.
But let's say he calls me tomorrow with an offer, which is likely. I want to negotiate for a higher pay - preferably $15 an hour minimum. How should I approach this? I stand a decent chance at getting another offer elsewhere that is more attractive money-wise but nothing's on the table at this moment and won't be for another day or two. What would be the best way to frame this negotiation without losing my job offer?
Just ask for a few days to think over it. I would not accept or reject the offer on that phone call. Then get the other offer and use that to negotiate
We're in the second week of June already. You're a sophomore. You don't have any offers in hand.
You have absolutely zero leverage for getting paid more. Considering you have nothing else "in hand" you need to take what you can get given we're already in the 2nd week of June. You need experience more than anything which in this case means $0/hr is better than no internship at all.
Nailed it.
Internship pay does not equate to career earnings so take what you have and don't worry about the damn money.
How do you know this bro wont pay you $15 still? Expanding on what KingTut and YeahRight said, if he's paying you a low hourly wage as a sophomore intern, he might not really care about the extra $5/hour, especially if you will only be working 20 hours a week. He might pay you $10 at first but then bump it up if you are doing good work... You never know. All you can do is work hard and benefit from the opportunity in front of you.
Think positive brah... You have nothing else going, you will be getting paid, and the main benefit of this work is gaining the experience. Think of the bigger picture rather than your immediate "summer fun" financial needs.
How is no one going to point out that he could easily pick up another part time (or full time) job with a 20-hour per week schedule?
Came here to say this.
You are in no position to complain about not having enough money for "summer activities" if you're only willing to work 20 hours a week.
Another part-time job? This kid should find a full-time job (will include weekends) willing to work around the other's scheduling... yes, it's 60 hours, but get used to it.
You'll be bored out of your mind only working 20hrs. Tactfully angle for more money for this position and find another position on top of it.
See what I did there guys? I combined all your ideas. Yeah.
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