Negotiating Pay in the Outpatient Environment

Nurses General Nursing

Published

I've seen a lot of questions regarding negotiating pay within a hospital system, but what about in the ambulatory/outpatient sector? Is this something that is typically done, or do most people just accept the offer immediately?

I must admit that I am out of my depth when it comes to salary negotiations, and have quite literally never done it in my life. My fear is that I could unintentionally appear ungrateful for the opportunity, or god forbid, have the offer rescinded. I don't want to start a new job on the wrong foot, looking like I'm greedy and money hungry, but I don't think it's unfair to ask for another $2-3/hour either.

If it came down to it, and I either had to take their initial offer or stay in my current job, I would take their initial offer in a heartbeat, but does that mean that I shouldn't still try to negotiate?

Nursing is probably the only health profession where we doubt our worth, agreeably work for less than we should, and feel guilty or concerned about even advocating for ourselves. It's a real shame. (<I don't mean that in a bad way about you personally whatsoever. It's just sad that nurses are so undervalued that this is even a concern!)

I don't think requesting $2-3 more per hour sounds greedy or money hungry. That's asking for $4,000-6,000 more per year, which is pretty reasonable. If they would rescind your offer for this request, rather than just accept/decline it, then it's not a place you want to work. I imagine the worst you'll hear is "no" or maybe a compromise offer for $1-1.50 more per hour. Beats nothing, and worth trying!

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