Here's how you can navigate a salary negotiation with a lower initial offer as a program manager.

Remember that the title “program manager” is a grossly broad category of roles and scopes of responsibility. Ask the right questions to understand scope of impact expected. Look at the key stakeholders - are they front line associates or VPs? Know the travel and work expectations. From this you can gauge whether this is an entry level or VP level role. From there, negotiate according to what you’ll bring to the table and deliver for the organization.

Lower offer? Don't sweat it! Here's your PM salary negotiation game plan: 1. Be Prepared: Research average PM salaries in your area (salary info sites) and highlight achievements that showcase your value. 2. Polite Pushback: Thank them for the offer, express excitement, then confidently state your desired salary range. 3. Focus on Value: Don't just demand more. Quantify past successes and explain how you'll bring them benefits. 4. Negotiate the Whole Package: Salary isn't everything. Discuss signing bonuses, stock options, or flexible benefits to create a win-win. 5. Know Your Limit: If talks stall, politely thank them and consider if the offer aligns with your goals. Be prepared to walk away.

This is particularly important for women who tend to undervalue themselves. It is necessary to become aware of their worth by reviewing facts from their careers. Consulting with relevant and well-positioned individuals outside of their field can greatly help to boost confidence.

From my experience, it is important to demonstrate, both in verbal and non-verbal communication, the desire for the job. Additionally, if we are not confident that we are worth what we are asking for, it is better not to start negotiations at all. To be successful and better positioned, our beliefs and our speech must be aligned.

Exactly. One should carefully weigh and consider all aspects. It could be a good opportunity in terms of transitioning jobs. Even if the pay is not satisfactory, the opportunity might open up new and better prospects, for instance, due to better networking opportunities.

For negotiations, one should prepare well and practice. It is a good idea to ask for advice from colleagues who have gone through a similar process.

On the other side, sometimes it is just ok to say no and be prepared for another opportunity and take that one as a learning experience.