Is it right to try to negotiate pay?

PMHNP10 · Mar 10, 2008

I was just offered a new job, which will require me to drive about 30 minutes longer (one way) to get to work if I take it. I was expecting better pay than I was offered. I will actually be making less in the end because of the extra gas and stuff. I have wanted this job for a long time because it is a Baylor weekend plan. I would work 2 nights (12 hour shifts) and get paid for an additional 8 hours (it used to be additional 12, which would have been worth it). Is it right to ask for more money? I was told by an employee there to "fight for the money and I'll get it"...but Im not sure exactly how to do that.

You should absolutely fight for more $$$. My suggestion is that you look at what you need to live relatively comfortably (i.e., wouldn't be living check to check, could treat yourself well, etc.); what you'd like (within reason); and what they are offerring. Give them a number that approaches/exceeds the reaonable, what you'd like amount, let them offer in between (which would hopefully meet your live relatively comfortable amount) and make your decision from there.

Remember, you should never sell yourself short because you are worth every penny they pay you and many times over.

leslie :-D · Mar 10, 2008

i remember when i took my first job out of nsg school, i negotiated a raise after my 3 month probation.

in the interview, i told them that i would like to be making $_____/hr, at the end of the 3 months, knowing they'd be satisfied w/my performance.

it worked out quite well.

leslie

chenoaspirit, ASN, RN · Mar 11, 2008

Thanks so much for your responses. I will try it, but Ive never done it before and Im really nervous about it. Ive only worked at one place since I graduated nursing school and as a new graduate I had no grounds to negotiate. So this is my first time. Wish me luck!