Desired Salary Question

[new_worker]

When you get hired to a facility, it seems like more and more are asking what is your desired salary?.

So my question is:

If the amount you put is less then the starting wage at the facility but you didn't know it, will they bump you up to the regular pay for your position?, or just keep what you said and wait for a raise? If two new grads got hired same time and put different amounts for starting salary and one got a higher amount even though both have no experience and someone else comes in and puts less amount would they even it out with each other even though you are doing same job???

[fanfan8787RN]

The salary would only be adjusted if you are working for a union facility. The union would have a a set salary grade depending on years of experience. Otherwise, nurses have to negotiate their own salary.

[Chin up]

There is usually a new grad scale. They pretty much give everyone, the same starting rate. They may say, 25 dollars an hour is our new grad start rate, with increases annually etc. You can take that or negotiate. If they ask you what salary you are looking for, many will hold you to a lessor amount if that is what you asked for. So, find out stating salaries in your area. Also find out median salaries for experienced nurses, say less than 5 years. Ask for that amount. If you find the going rate is 23 for new grads and 26 for 1-5 years experience. Ask for the 26. They may say, all they can give is 23. You can then say, is that the best you can do? and that alone may pick up another dollar, making it 24. Or, don't give a figure, when asked. Once you know they want you, say, I know you will give me a fair wage and benefit package. Then go into negotiation from there. I find the latter more beneficial for me. But I know what I am worth and what is reasonable for my time and talent. This is your homework before you apply for the position.

So, know the going rate, decide the absolute least you can live on, then go from there. As for what others get in your facility, forget that. It is not your business and you should never discuss wages with others. If you are union, that is another story, but as a rule, negotiate what you are worth and what you are able to deal with. Peace!

Ps- sometimes what they quote is the best. Especially for new grads. If that is the case and you want the job, take it. Peace!

[LuvScrubs2, BSN, RN]

Great Advice Chinup.......:)

[westieluv]

What I usually do in this situation, unless it's an online form that will only accept a numerical figure, is put "negotiable". I always hate to put a numerical figure, because if it's too low, then you may never find out what you could have been offered, and if it's too high, they may pass you over for someone who put a lower figure. I hate it when they ask this!

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

I have a wage grid to follow. Non union building. I really don't have too much leeway when hiring people, especially new grads. Usually only the management salaries are negotiable.

These days, if someone offers you a job, take it.