Updated: Feb 25
Want to know if you can negotiate your salary as a new sonographer? Yes, you definitely should! Learn what it means to negotiate, how to negotiate and what not to do when negotiating.
Can a Brand New Sonographer Negotiate Their Salary?
Yes, you should try negotiating your salary as a new grad sonographer. There are no rules that say you can't. If you negotiate, no one will scold or punish you, and the experience will be useful to you in the future. In fact, according to Glassdoor, your potential employer expects it, and you should do it. But you need to know what you're up against before you start salary negotiations. It is important to realize that most employers may not be willing to negotiate with new sonography school grads, but you should still do it anyway. Most companies have internal salary ranges they won't cross.
There are several reasons why your first job offer as a newly minted sonographer might be lower than you had anticipated:
You don't have any experience in the field.
Your employer knows you are more likely than an experienced sonographer to be flexible on salary.
Because you lack experience, your options will be limited, and they know this.
You will still require months of training and will not take call during this time.
What Does It Mean to Negotiate Salary?
When negotiating your employment terms, don't forget about the little things. In addition to your salary, several other items can be up for negotiation. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want. The worst that can happen is that your employer says no. But you may be surprised at what you can get if you're willing to ask.
Negotiating isn't only about your salary. You can negotiate:
401k / 403b
Hiring/signing bonuses
Vacation time
Personal days and sick leave
Parental leave
Tuition reimbursement
Student loan repayment
Child care reimbursement