Dr. Susan Schulz

That is a great question, Jenna. We think the key is to build self esteem and confidence in the grad. Help them understand that they have been taught the best skills and knowledge for the careers they are seeking. And then make sure your curriculum supports that. Use the same negotiating strategies that anyone would use to seek a job. And have lots of practice sessions. Will the person with little experience get a higher salary? Who knows? What is important is that your grads go into the interview with the highest esteem. Thanks

Cary Ortiz

Do you think they should negotiate a salary if they are at the entry level position with the only expirience received at school or externship program?

Dr. Susan Schulz

Intersting question. Knowing how to negotiate salary and other benefits is important. It helps to increase self confidence and make the grad feel that they have the skills to ask for a higher salary. Or to ask how raises and advancement are decided. It shows a level of confidence. Not everyone can pull it off, but why not provide the skills. Also can be offered to Alumni who have some experience and want to advance on the job. Thanks, Susan

Chancellor Tzomes

A good tip is for them to become familiar with the current hiring trends in their discipline (aligned with general hiring criterea), so they will able to negotiate successfully by having some compensation intelligence.

Dr. Susan Schulz

Good point. We feel that the school career services department needs to keep track of salary ranges. Also we think that grads should be skilled in negotiating their first job. That includes salary, benefits, performance compensation, what has to be done to gain increases, move to the next level, etc. It's amazing how much you can empower a recent grad when they have the skills to feel like they can negotiate their first position. Thanks, Susan

Angie Miranda

I think getting the student to negotiate salaries, helps them with there confidence and not be afraid to talk about salary, benefits, and growth with the company. Also,wanting to become long term employees. I think that shows the employers they have the confidence and that would like to be considered long term employees with the company.

Dr. Susan Schulz

We agree Angie. Can you imagine how confident your grads could be if they can comfortably negotiate their first jobs. Wow. And it's possible. Be sure they have the career knowledge and skills. And be sure they are skilled in the employment preparation and search process. Takes almost as much time as going to class. Good luck, Susan