Lead them. I would love to accept the position. However, I can only do so at a salary of $... If this sounds reasonable to you, when can I start?

Maybe your minimum was in their range of what they would pay.... But just like anything in life they are trying to get you a little cheaper.. Counter.. If not then go about your business.

I would not counter. I'd just say no. If they asked why, I'd tell them the obvious: you assholes wasted my time.

I didn't discuss wages until the offer was on the table. I wanted my job for the job. Turns out that strategy paid because entry level was great and the benefits are outstanding.

This

You already resent the low ball offer. If you take their offer you'll loath the job in 6 months.

You are in control at this point. Counter with or above your minimum but don't settle for any less. They opened the door with a 10% flux counter 10% higher.

One thing I've learned is not to judge a company by their HR department... well, I guess unless you're looking for a job in HR.

Did you ever talk with the hiring manager? I'd consider following up with them directly or if you didn't, asking if you can talk with them because you have some questions... and then get a vibe whether that person is impressed and really wants you around and then go from there, screw the HR tactics.

pretty much this.

As plenty others have mentioned, this is the only time you have the upper hand.

And think about this......if they're going to dick around with you this much as an external hire, how do you think they will be dealing with you come performance review time or promotion time? (even lower lowball)

If you like the job and the opportunity/benefits, etc.....I'd let 'em know you're considering another offer, and you cant really take anything less than 5-8% over the minimum you listed.

While everyone else is blowing sunshine and kisses to you, let me give you a different perspective...

1) Maybe to them it seemed it was all about the money to you, and that isn't what they are looking for in a team member. People who are all about the money rarely hang around long enough for the employer to recoup the investment they make in you.

2)Maybe they had someone who was just as qualified as you and would accept the lesser salary. With that in their pocket, they just decided to see if you would accept the lesser amount.

Either way....get over it and move on. Making it personal and being angry won't help you with the next job search/interview.

I had 2 interviews with the hiring manager. As I understand things, they were very interested in my skill set. Again, what miffs me is being told twice that my minimum was within range and then getting an offer well below. That comes out to men it's out of range or you aren't wanting to pay it.

they could be trying to get me cheap but then again they may be offering the max in which that means my minimum was never within range and they did indeed waste everyone's time.

Number 2 could be possible, I don't know. That being said, #1 is pure bullshit. You don't ask someone what their minimum acceptable salary is, call them in for multiple interviews, tell them their minimum is within range then come off with this "well, we want people who aren't just interested in money so we will offer you well below what you said your minimum acceptable salary is even though we told you twice that it was within our range. Sorry, we were just kidding". It's unprofessional to say they least.

I don't get this comment.....in the interview process no one has the upper hand unless of course they were chasing him, which I don't see that mentioned.

1. Don't make it personal. You'll likely make a better decision if you keep your head clear about the situation.

2. It costs you nothing to take a shot at negotiation. If they don't budge then you walk away.

3. If you do decide to negotiate, consider what form of compensation is acceptable to you. Is it just money? Maybe get additional vacation.

1. I am taking a few days before I decide to keep the personal aspect out of it.

2. I know

3. Do you know anyone that has actually done this?

This is true. During my last review I found out that according to my HR's salary evaluation software I was making 40% more than I should.... but I still got a raise because my manager knows its BS.

Your looking at it all wrong....you think they are just out to screw you and get you cheaply.

I'm not sure how many job search's you have done, but what they did is exactly the norm these days, especially in a job market where good candidates are plentiful.