💼 How to Negotiate Your First Salary Abroad: A Beginner's Guide

Getting your first job offer abroad is exciting, but don’t rush to say yes immediately! One of the most overlooked yet important skills is negotiating your salary. Whether you're starting a full-time role or internship abroad, a well-handled negotiation can set the tone for your entire career.

Here's a complete guide to help international students and new professionals navigate salary talks with confidence and strategy.

🤔 Why Negotiate?

You might feel nervous about negotiating, especially in a new country. But here’s why you should:

• Employers expect some negotiation—it shows confidence and awareness.
• Your first salary becomes the base for future raises and promotions.
• It can help cover the higher cost of living in your new city.

📊 Step 1: Do Your Research

Before you talk numbers, you need data:

• Check salary ranges for your role using websites like:
• Glassdoor
• Payscale
• Indeed
• Country-specific forums or student communities
• Consider:
• Location-based costs (e.g., living in London vs. Manchester)
• Industry standards for fresh graduates or entry-level roles
• Work visa sponsorship benefits if applicable

💡 Step 2: Know What You’re Worth

Evaluate your unique strengths:

• Internships or projects relevant to the job
• In-demand technical skills (like Python, Figma, or SQL)
• Language proficiency (especially if you're bilingual)
• Certifications or special training

Even if it’s your first job, you bring value to the table.

📞 Step 3: Time It Right

Wait until you have a job offer before discussing salary. If asked early on, say:

“I’m open, but I’d like to learn more about the role and expectations before we talk compensation.”

Once you get an offer, ask for a little time:

“Thank you for the offer! Can I take 1–2 days to review and get back to you?”

💬 Step 4: How to Ask Confidently

Use this simple format:

“Thank you for the offer. Based on my research and the cost of living in [City], I was expecting something closer to [X amount]. Is there any flexibility in the starting salary?”

📌 Tips:

• Be polite, not aggressive.
• Avoid emotional reasoning—stick to market data and skills.
• If salary isn’t flexible, consider negotiating benefits like:
• Remote work flexibility
• Joining bonus or relocation allowance
• Additional paid leave or training reimbursement

🛑 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Accepting the first offer too quickly
• ❌ Giving a salary range without research
• ❌ Undervaluing yourself due to visa status
• ❌ Ignoring the benefits package (sometimes it's worth more than base pay!)

🔁 Step 5: Handle Responses Gracefully

If they agree:

🎉 Express gratitude and get it in writing.

If they say no:

💬 “Thank you for considering it. I’m still excited about the opportunity and happy to move forward.”

If they ghost or rescind:

🚩 It’s a red flag—do you want to work with a company that doesn't respect negotiation?

💬 Realistic Example for Indian Students Abroad

You say:

“Based on similar roles in [city], and considering my coursework and project experience in data analytics, I was expecting around €3,000/month. Is there flexibility in the current offer of €2,700?”

They respond:

“We can’t go to €3,000 but can offer €2,850 plus an annual performance bonus.”

🎯 That’s a successful negotiation!

✨ Final Thoughts

Negotiating your first salary abroad isn’t just about money—it’s about knowing your worth, doing your homework, and setting the tone for your professional journey. Employers respect candidates who advocate for themselves professionally and respectfully.

📱 Bonus Tip: Use the AbroadSaathi App to find salary guides, community advice, and job negotiation tips tailored for Indian students and

NRIs abroad.

Available on Play Store and App Store.

Empower your abroad journey with confidence 💪