How to evaluate and negotiate your first job offer

Getting a job offer is exciting, especially when you are finishing school or in the first few years of your career, but it can also create pressure to provide an answer quickly. Instead, pause, thank the employer, ask for time to review the offer, and look at the full package before you say yes.

Start with the whole offer.

Salary matters, but it is only one part of the offer. Review health insurance, paid time off, retirement contributions, flexibility, commute, schedule, professional development, tuition support, workplace culture, and opportunities to grow. A slightly lower salary may be the better choice if the role gives you stronger benefits, a clearer path forward, or a healthier day-to-day life.

Build a personal scorecard.

There is no universal offer. The right offer is the one that fits your priorities. Before comparing jobs, rank the factors that matter most to you, identify your non-negotiables, and decide what you would be willing to request.

Choose your top three priorities. They might be salary, flexibility, and growth, or perhaps health coverage, location, and tuition support. Writing them down will make it easier to compare offers without being swayed by one impressive number.

Know your range before you negotiate.

A strong counteroffer starts with research, not guesswork. Build a range for you as an employee using several inputs: the role, location, industry, reliable market data, and the qualifications you bring. Consider your degree, relevant experience, specialized skills, internships, certifications, and measurable results. Then set three numbers for yourself: a target, a stretch amount, and a walk-away point. You may never share all three, but knowing them will help you speak clearly and make a thoughtful decision.

Make one clear professional ask.

Negotiation does not need to be confrontational. Keep it brief: express appreciation, show enthusiasm, explain the basis for your request, and ask whether there is flexibility.

An example response could be: “Thank you so much for the offer. I’m excited about the role and the team. Based on my research and experience, I was expecting something closer to (insert salary). Is there flexibility to discuss that amount?”

If the employer says the salary is fixed, the conversation is not necessarily over. You can ask about a signing bonus, preferred start date, additional PTO, hybrid days, professional development funds, an earlier performance review, adjusted title or scope, or relocation and commuting support.

Get it in writing.

Before making a decision, confirm the final salary, benefits, and negotiated terms in writing to avoid confusion and ensure you and the employer are on the same page. Be sure to provide a response in a timely manner and express your appreciation.

Remember, your first offer is a decision about your time, growth, and financial well-being. You do not need years of experience to evaluate it carefully. You simply need a clear sense of what matters to you, sound research, and the confidence to ask a professional question.

Need help evaluating an offer?

Career Success staff is available to help AU students and alumni throughout the job and internship search process. Contact career@aurora.edu to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.