u/BirtBigsby

I recently started a new job at a grocery chain. This is my second job since exiting the military in 2024. I was at my previous job about 3 months and left to get as assistant store manager. On day 4 the manager who was training came in and gave me his keys, so there’s an opening for the store leader role. I spoke with my regional manager, who told me that she had intended to move me to the store manager position when she hired me. I have had interactions with many store manager and area managers since, with only positive interaction and being taught a lot right away. The other person up for the job, withdrew and my boss called me today saying we can move things along and to expect a call from my distinct operations manager.

My experience in the military includes 11 years of service. Completed leadership courses managed people and teams. As well as managing a multi-million dollar section consisting of many different assets. In that position I managed the section budget, personnel, purchasing, and weekly meeting with command, and further interaction on occasion with DVs.

Now the job salary range in indeed is listed at 63k to 80k, also includes great benefits and bonus incentives. My first instinct is to negotiate, but I also consider I have essentially 0 retail experience and wonder if I should accept the minimum as it is quite a big jump as it is. Obviously I want this job. I know all the employer can really do at the end of the day is say no and pay me what they want.

I used ChatGPT to kind of gauge a respectable negotiation point and it suggested asking for 74k. I am nervous that I’m way out of my league in asking for that amount. Please share your opinions and let’s know what I may realistically negotiate for.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: TLDR: started at a new company within 3 weeks they want to promote me. I have next to 0 experience. What would you ask for with the salary range if 63-80k?