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Career Guide

Salary Negotiation for Freshers

Get the salary you deserve with these proven strategies.

Do's

Research market rates before interviews
Wait for them to make first offer
Consider total compensation (not just base)
Ask for time to think
Be respectful and professional
Get final offer in writing

Don'ts

Share your current/expected salary early
Accept immediately without thinking
Lie about other offers
Be aggressive or demanding
Negotiate after accepting
Focus only on salary (ignore benefits)

Negotiation Scripts

When asked expected salary

"I'm flexible and more interested in the role. What's the budget for this position?"

When offer is lower than expected

"Thank you for the offer. Based on my research and skills, I was expecting closer to [X]. Is there flexibility?"

When they can't increase base salary

"I understand. Would it be possible to consider a signing bonus or earlier performance review?"

When accepting the offer

"I appreciate your flexibility. I'm excited to join and contribute to the team. Please share the offer letter."

Components to Negotiate

Base Salary

Fixed monthly/annual salary - negotiate this first

Variable Pay

Performance bonus, typically 10-20% of base

Joining Bonus

One-time payment - easier to negotiate than base

Stock Options

Common in startups, vests over 3-4 years

Benefits

Health insurance, food, transport allowances

Learning Budget

Certifications, courses, books allowance