Congratulations! You’ve graduated from NECO and are ready to start your career as an optometrist. After years of rigorous training, board exams, and clinical rotations, you now face a critical next step—negotiating your first job offer.
While salary is an essential component, effective negotiation goes beyond just numbers. It’s about securing a position that aligns with your professional goals, financial needs, and long-term career aspirations. Here’s how to approach the process with confidence.
Step 1: Research and Understand Market Trends
Before you negotiate, it’s important to understand the job market for new optometrists. Here are some key factors to research:
- Salary Averages: Check salary reports from professional associations like the American Optometric Association (AOA) or job platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor to gauge the going rate for new optometrists in your region.
- Practice Setting Differences: Salaries can vary significantly between corporate optometry, private practices, ophthalmology clinics, and hospital settings. Each has different benefits and expectations.
- Cost of Living: Factor in location-based cost differences. A job offer in Boston may need to be higher than one in a rural area to maintain the same standard of living.
Step 2: Evaluate the Entire Compensation Package
When reviewing an offer, look beyond just the base salary. Consider:
- Bonuses and Incentives: Are there performance-based bonuses or profit-sharing opportunities?
- Continuing Education (CE) Allowance: Many employers offer stipends for licensing fees, conferences, and continuing education credits.
- Benefits Package: Look at health insurance, dental coverage, retirement plans (401k matching), malpractice insurance, and disability insurance.
- Schedule and Work-Life Balance: Will you be expected to work weekends or long hours? Is there flexibility?
- Student Loan Assistance: Some employers offer loan repayment programs, particularly in underserved areas.
By taking a holistic view, you can ensure your contract aligns with both your immediate needs and long-term goals.
Step 3: Know Your Value and Be Ready to Advocate
Employers expect candidates to negotiate. Approach the discussion with confidence and professionalism by:
- Highlighting Your Strengths: Emphasize your clinical skills, residency experience (if applicable), and any special training in areas like dry eye management, myopia control, or specialty contact lenses.
- Demonstrating Market Knowledge: If you’ve done your research, you can justify why a higher salary or better benefits make sense based on industry standards.
- Being Diplomatic: Frame your negotiation as a discussion rather than a demand. Instead of saying, “I won’t accept less than $120,000,” try, “Based on my research and skill set, I was expecting a salary closer to $120,000. Is there room for adjustment?”
Step 4: Be Prepared for Common Employer Responses
- “This is our standard offer.” – Politely ask if there’s any flexibility in salary, bonuses, or benefits. If not, consider negotiating other aspects like schedule, signing bonuses, or continuing education.
- “We can’t increase salary, but we can offer other perks.” – Sometimes, employers can’t budge on salary but can adjust benefits. If so, ask for additional PTO, a signing bonus, or CE reimbursement.
- “We’ll get back to you.” – If an employer needs time to consider your request, be patient. It’s okay to follow up within a week if you haven’t heard back.
Step 5: Get Everything in Writing
Once you’ve reached an agreement, ensure the final offer is provided in writing. Read the contract carefully to confirm all negotiated terms are included before signing. If anything is unclear, consider consulting a contract attorney or professional mentor.
Final Thoughts: Negotiating with Confidence
Negotiation can feel intimidating, but it’s an essential skill that will serve you throughout your career. Employers expect it, and when done professionally, it demonstrates confidence and business acumen. By preparing in advance, advocating for your worth, and evaluating the entire compensation package, you can secure a job that meets both your financial and professional needs.
Good luck, and welcome to the profession!
Resources for NECO Graduates:
- NECO Career Services – For job search guidance and contract reviews.
- American Optometric Association (AOA) – Salary reports and industry trends.
- LinkedIn & Professional Networks – Connect with alumni to gain insights on job market expectations.
Let us know how your job search is going—NECO is here to support you every step of the way!