I read that most people don't negotiate their first job offer

I was reading a report from a career site called The Muse, and it said something like 75% of people just accept the first salary number they hear for an entry-level role. I always assumed you were supposed to at least try to ask for more, even if it's just a little. I'm about to graduate and start looking, and that stat makes me think I should prepare a counter-offer script. Is it really that common to just take the initial offer without a word?

2 comments

2 Comments

ellis.felix1mo ago

Yeah that line about 75% just accepting the first number really hit me. I used to think you had to negotiate no matter what, like it was a rule. But seeing how common it is to just take the offer makes me get it now. The fear of losing the job offer is real, especially when you're starting out. I guess a lot of people feel like they have no power in that first job talk. It definitely changed my mind about judging folks who don't push back.

singh.blair1mo ago

Totally get what you mean. I used to be the same way, thinking you were a fool not to try for more. But that stat is a real gut check. It shows how much pressure people are under just to get their foot in the door. Makes you realize judging someone for taking the sure thing is pretty out of touch.