Should you never accept the first offer they give you?

I want to prepare myself when getting a call. I submitted a range for my last interview that was promising and I would be happy with the least amount of that range but should you negotiate for more off the bat? I read that a lot of employers will purposely offer a lower salary because they expect a counter offer.

Re: Should you never accept the first offer they give you?

That's tough.

A lot of places the salary is what it is to start and there's no room for negotiation.

It was like this at my current job, but I've since had a COL adjustment and a merit raise that I didn't expect. (Was hired in May 2013).

I basically chose the job for the amazing benefits, environment and room for growth.

You can ask though if there's room for negotiation if they offer you the job though....I wouldn't push it if they say no.

Message edited 10/6/2014 5:46:10 AM.

Re: Should you never accept the first offer they give you?

It really depends on the company. In my job now this company actually tends to bring their strongest offer to the table right away. What they offered me was the highest they could go. I did ask them if there was room for negotiation but they basically made it clear that they put their absolute best foot forward.

Re: Should you never accept the first offer they give you?

In my current job, I was told upfront when I was called in for an interview that this is the salary and there's no negoitating it.