Q. I graduated three years ago and had three internships before landing an entry-level agency job last year. I’m not keen on that sort of client work, so I interviewed and was offered a job with a nonprofit organization. My agency job paid $38,000 a year and the offer is for $57,500. I’m really excited about the new position but wonder if I should try to negotiate for a higher salary. (I don’t have any other job offers or prospects at this point). Should I try to get $60K? -AG
A. A 65% increase is more than generous at this stage of your career. Don’t risk sending mixed signals about your desire to do the job by asking for a bit more money. You want to shift your career path and this seems to be a logical move and more than fair salary bump, especially from a nonprofit.
My advice: Just Say Yes! In the long run, you’ll be starting on the best of terms by accepting this great offer. Demanding more could raise a trust concern by your employer as well as set higher expectations for what you’ll be able to deliver in this new role. Take the job, work hard, prove yourself and the money will follow in this and other roles that you’ll have in your long career.