Negotiating in Higher Education
Negotiation is a normal part of hiring, and involves careful preparation, flexibility, tact, and self-assertion. It also sets the groundwork for future negotiations, on the job and over your career.
Fortunately, a post-offer negotiation is a collaborative conversation, as both parties share the same goal of working together. You show a balance of respect for their needs and confidence in the value you bring them, based on your relevant strengths and your salary research. Your professionalism in negotiating is likely to impress them even more.
The negotiation process can reshape crucial aspects of the offer, such as the job description and salary, and the costs of your research lab setup, if applicable (prepare closely with your PI or other mentors to determine those). Make sure that any new agreements resulting from your negotiations are written into the final contract before you sign, so they are binding.
Start Building Negotiation Skills on Our Essentials Page
Learn essentials of preparing to negotiate. no matter what kind of work you are going into.
Take Advantage of Academic Negotiation Resources
UCSF tips on what to negotiate and how: slides, readings, samples
Stephen J. Aguilar - Inside Higher Ed
Recorded Panel from Duke University
Overcoming Hesitations
There are several factors that can cause hesitation when it comes to negotiating a more favorable contract. It's important to understand and address these concerns.
Bias Awareness
Negotiation experiences can be influenced by biases related to gender, race, etc. It's crucial to be aware of these biases and strive for fair negotiations.
Fear of Alienating
Many worry that negotiating could jeopardize an offer. However, as long as you present a strong case, in a calm and collaborative way, they are likely to appreciate your confidence in the value you bring and respect you more.
Lack of Knowledge
A lack of understanding about what to expect from an academic job and how much negotiation is appropriate can create hesitation. Educate yourself on standards and reasonable expectations to feel more confident during negotiations.
Job Market Pressure
In a challenging job market, there may be a tendency to accept any job offer without negotiating. However, it's essential to consider your worth and aim for a fair and suitable contract. Remember that negotiating is professional and expected.
Beyond Salary
When evaluating a job offer, consider all the components of the job, beyond just salary. By carefully assessing your expectations and being prepared to prioritize and communicate them, you can confidently discuss the contract terms. Here are some key components to consider.
Teaching Commitments
Consider the type and number of classes you will be responsible for. Ensure that your teaching load allows sufficient time for research and publishing, particularly if securing tenure is a goal. Additionally, inquire about the availability of teaching relief or assistance.
Research Support
Evaluate the level of support provided for your research endeavors. This may include teaching and research assistants who can contribute to your projects.
Facilities & Resources
Assess the availability of adequate lab and office space that align with your research needs. Access to well-equipped facilities is crucial for successful academic work, which benefits them as well.
If possible, visit the space beforehand to see if it's suitable. Note the furniture and determine if it meets your needs. Discuss the provision of a computer and any additional equipment you may need.
Time for Research & Development
Inquire about research leave and sabbatical opportunities that allow dedicated periods
for focused scholarly pursuits and professional growth.
Additional Considerations
Take into account other important factors such as spousal hires (employment opportunities for a partner) and assistance with moving expenses if applicable.
Finally, arrange for a conversation with your prospective advisor/P!, about the level of training and mentoring you can expect, and their preferred mode of communication (email, in person, phone, etc.). It helps to discuss these ahead of time.
Preparing for Contract Discussions
Seek Advice
Reach out to your current supervisor or faculty members whom you trust and feel comfortable with, as well as new faculty who have recently gone through the process. They can provide valuable insights into starting salaries, potential raises, and expectations regarding research and teaching assistance. This advice will vary depending on the specific academic position you are negotiating.
Establish Salary Range
Once you have obtained average salary figures for your institution, ensure that your negotiation request aligns with or exceeds this range. After all, if they have made you an offer they respect your strengths, and It's important not to undervalue your worth and expertise.
Contact Faculty Associations
Get in touch with the faculty associations at the universities you are interested in. They can offer information about salaries, contracts, and other relevant details. You can visit the website of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), for instance.
Keep in mind that salary ranges can differ significantly among institutions and are influenced by factors like country and geographical location.
If Applying to a Canadian University
- Most have faculty associations that you can confidentially contact. You can find their contact information easily on the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) website.
- For specific information regarding Ontario universities, you can refer to the Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations (OCUFA).
- Statistics Canada is also a helpful resource, as they collect data on salaries categorized by age, university, and discipline.
Teaching Commitments & Workspace Considerations
When discussing teaching commitments and workspace it's essential to advocate for your needs and ensure clear agreements. You can ensure a productive and conducive environment for your academic pursuits, which benefits both and the institution.. Remember to approach these discussions with professionalism and maintain a positive attitude while expressing your requirements.
Teaching Commitments
Specify Teaching Load
Seek specific commitments regarding the number and type of classes you will teach. Discuss whether the focus will be on graduate or undergraduate courses and inquire about the anticipated class sizes.
Teaching Support
Inquire about the availability of teaching assistants or markers to assist you. Clarify the level of support you can expect, to ensure a smooth teaching experience.
Lab Space & Equipment (for Sciences)
Outline Specific Requirements
Clearly communicate your research needs, including lab space and a budget for specifics of equipment necessary to conduct successful research, and have a detailed prepared budget.
Minimize Startup Time
Emphasize the importance of minimizing any delays in accessing lab space and equipment. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and professionalism during negotiations.
Office Space Standards (for Humanities & Social Sciences)
Assess the Office Space
If possible, visit the office space beforehand to evaluate its suitability for your needs. Take note of the available furniture and determine if it meets your requirements.
Computer and Equipment
Discuss the provision of a suitable computer , important softwarrem and any additional equipment you may need for your work.
Prioritize Your Needs
When engaging in negotiations, it's crucial to consider various aspects that can impact your experience as a faculty member. By prioritizing these negotiations, you can help shape a positive and supportive environment for your academic journey.
Research Funds & Professional Development
Clearly communicate your expectations regarding research funds, travel expenses for conferences, and professional development support. Discuss the specific amount of funds you will receive, if any, to ensure they align with your needs.
Administrative & Committee Work
Discuss expectations and responsibilities related to administrative and committee work. Inquire about the number of committees you may be expected to serve on each year and the frequency of administrative roles. Clarify your role as an undergraduate advisor, placement officer, or coordinator of a hiring committee.
Family and Children Benefits
Negotiate benefits for your family and children. Review union agreements regarding medical benefits, which may not be negotiable. Explore spousal hires, tuition waivers for your partner or children, and assistance in finding positions for your non-academic partner/spouse. Inquire about support for moving expenses, accommodations, or faculty housing.
Well-being & Support
Ensure discussions encompass your well-being and support systems. Address topics like benefits for same-sex couples, parental and adoption leaves, ethnic, cultural, or religious considerations, accessibility issues, and necessary accommodations. Utilize university resources dedicated to people from different backgrounds. Seek guidance from the faculty association for information and support on these topics.
Contract Review
Thoroughly review your contract, requesting sufficient time for careful consideration. Depending on the circumstances and start date, seek a reasonable timeframe for contract review. Consult a faculty association representative and, if needed, a lawyer to ensure clarity and understanding.
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