So you finally got the interview, aced all the questions, and then came the magic words: “We’d like to offer you the job.”
Exciting, right? But now comes the part that makes most fresh grads sweat: salary negotiation.
Many new graduates worry that asking for more money will make them seem greedy or ungrateful. But here’s the truth: negotiating your salary is not rude—it's smart. You just need to do it the right way.
Here are 7 practical and polite tips to help fresh grads in Malaysia negotiate a better starting salary confidently.
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1. Do Your Research First 🔍
Before talking numbers, find out the average pay for your role, location, and industry.
Use sites like:
JobStreet
Glassdoor
Hays Salary Guide
LinkedIn Jobs
Example: If a junior graphic designer in KL usually earns RM2,500–RM3,200/month, aim within that range—don’t guess blindly.
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2. Know Your Value (Even Without a Full-Time Job Yet) 💼
You may not have years of experience, but you’ve still got value!
Highlight:
Internship or part-time experience
Academic projects or group leadership
Certifications (Google, Microsoft, etc.)
Soft skills like teamwork, punctuality, and communication
Confidence sells—but keep it humble.
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3. Wait Until You Receive the Offer 🕐
Don’t bring up salary during your first interview. Let them see your worth and make an offer first. That puts you in a better position to negotiate.
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4. Be Honest About Your Expectations 🗣️
Instead of saying:
> “I want RM4,000 minimum.”
Say:
> “Based on my research and experience, I believe a range between RM3,200 to RM3,500 would be fair for this position.”
It sounds professional, reasonable, and shows you’ve done your homework.
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5. Think Beyond Basic Salary 💳
Sometimes, the full package is worth more than the monthly pay.
Ask about:
Travel, phone, or meal allowances
Medical coverage
EPF + SOCSO contributions
Training or certification support
Annual bonus or performance review cycle
Small perks add up.
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6. Practice Before the Conversation 🗂️
Rehearse what you’re going to say. Practicing helps reduce nervousness and makes your delivery smoother.
Sample line:
> “Thank you for the offer. I’m excited to join the team. Based on my research and what I can bring to the role, would it be possible to review the starting salary?”
Stay polite, calm, and friendly—never arrogant.
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7. Accept If It's Fair, or Move On Gracefully 🚀
If the offer matches the industry range and your expectations, accept it and get to work! If it’s too low, it’s okay to politely decline and keep looking.
Your first job isn’t your last—but a fair start matters.
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Conclusion: Negotiate with Confidence, Not Fear 🙌
You’ve studied hard, built skills, and earned your shot. Negotiating doesn’t make you greedy—it shows you understand your value. With the right tone, research, and attitude, even fresh graduates can walk away with a salary they deserve.
So go on—ask smart, not loud. The future you will thank you.
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