<prompt> Human: I am a 27 year old, college graduate, who has been working for a very reputable hospital for the past two years in a social workercertified nursing assistant counselor role. I am leaving the hospital and I just received my first salaried position with my states DSHS WorkSource program. I am excited. When I applied to the position it stated that there was a salary range, from 3,435 - 4,700 month. I just received the contract I am supposed to go in this Monday June 26th and sign. It has my salary listed as 3,435 month. I was a little shocked, since I am coming into the role with some experience. I have never negotiated my salary before, and I learned from my job with the hospital that I was getting fcked over on my hourly wage since I didnt advocate for more. Even if they kept my salary where it is, I would still take the position. I guess Im just uncomfortable with asking for more, and sad to say I think my gender is playing a role. SO any advice is very much appreciated. Thanks for reading. EDIT: When I stated ... I think my gender is playing a role. I did not mean in a discriminatory way. I meant that as a woman I feel uncomfortable negotiating. Any negotiating tips in general, non-gendered, would be welcome!  <response>: What are the minimum requirements for the new job? Is there any prior experience required?Youll have a harder time negotiating with government jobs because they try to save as much money as possible. Its not a surprise that their initial offer is at the minimum of the range.As far as gender bias, theres probably not much you can do except to act professional, follow the negotiating guidelines given to you, and do your best. 