Negotiating your first salary offer without fear

Most first-time job seekers accept the first number they hear. As someone who makes offers every week, I can tell you: a polite, well-reasoned counter rarely loses an offer.

Know your range before the call

Ask people in similar roles, check salary surveys and look at job adverts that list pay. Decide your minimum and your target.

Let them name a number first

If asked early, say you'd like to learn more about the role and the full package before discussing figures.

Negotiate the whole package

• Base salary
• HMO and pension
• Transport or remote-work allowance
• Training budget and review date

Say it simply

"Thank you, I'm excited about this role. Based on my research and the responsibilities, I was hoping for something closer to ₦X. Is there flexibility?" Then stop talking and listen.