Presentation Goal:

This module is designed to help students master the art of assessing an offer and feel more confident in negotiation conversations, a critical component of the Pursue Your Goals phase of the Rutgers Career Journey Model. In this phase, students learn that offer management and negotiation are the final tools they’ll use to advocate for their value, secure necessary resources, and confidently launch their career.

In this lesson students will learn how to conduct market research to identify their market value, how to approach negotiation conversations, and practice their skills through a mock negotiation. The target audience for this information is undergraduate students of all majors.

Career Journey Model Phase: Pursue Your Goals

Presentation Time/Length: 60 minutes

Format: In-person; Notes on how to present this information virtually is shared throughout the lesson plan/script.

Lesson Outline:

Welcome & Introduction | 2 mins

Set the stage and define the workshop goals.

Mindset & The Career Journey Model | 10mins

Deconstruct the myth that your major dictates your career. Introduce the Rutgers Career Journey Model and NACE Career Competencies.

Reframe the Negotiation Perspective | 10mins

Address common student fears and shift the mindset to viewing negotiation as a standard business practice.

Assessing and Navigating the Offer | 10mins

How to formally receive an offer, ask for time, look beyond base salary, and avoid severe pitfalls like reneging.

Active Negotiation Simulation | 23mins

Review script templates, anchor numbers, and run the 10-minute partner negotiation activity followed by group reflection.

Recap & Next Steps | 5mins

Review the 5 core takeaways and assign 3 actionable next steps.

Logistics

Activity 1:
- Sticky notes and pens
- Preset a virtual whiteboard and breakout rooms
Pull up the Job Offer Evaluation Tool
Print copies of the Negotiation Simulation Activity Worksheet

Learning Objectives:

Students will be able to identify and assess key components of a job offer beyond salary using evaluation tools
Student will learn how to utilize credible online tools and resources to determine their market value and justify their negotiation points
Students will demonstrate increased confidence and competence in navigating a negotiation conversation

NACE Career Readiness Competencies Addressed:

Communication
Professionalism
Critical Thinking
Career & Self Development
Technology
Teamwork
Leadership

Materials Included This Module:

Offer Assessment and Negotiation Presentation - PowerPoint Slides
Offer Assessment and Negotiation Presentation - Lesson Plan/Script
Offer Assessment and Negotiation Presentation - Simulation Activity
Offer Assessment and Negotiation Presentation - Resources

Career Exploration and Success Tools:

· Job Offer Evaluation Tool

Choosing between job offers can be tough. Some jobs offer more money but less time off, while others pay less but help with tuition. It all depends on what matters most to you, like salary, time off, or educational support. The Job Offer Evaluation Tool helps you explore which offer might be best for you by considering and weighing your preferences.

CES contact for questions or anything related to the presentation:

Erika Teran
CES | Sr. Assistant Director, Professional Development Programs
et612@echo.rutgers.edu