How to Negotiate Your Salary: A Practical Guide
Salary Negotiation Is Expected
Most employers expect candidates to negotiate. A well-prepared counter-offer demonstrates professionalism, not greed. Research shows that candidates who negotiate their starting salary can earn significantly more over their career.
Before You Negotiate
- Research market rates: Use sources like Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, Payscale, and Bureau of Labor Statistics data to understand the market range for your role, level, and location
- Know your value: Identify specific accomplishments, skills, and experience that justify your ask
- Understand the full package: Salary is one component. Consider equity, bonuses, benefits, PTO, remote flexibility, and signing bonuses as part of total compensation
- Set your range: Determine your target number, a realistic high end, and your walk-away minimum
Negotiation Strategies
- Express enthusiasm first: Start by communicating genuine interest in the role before discussing compensation
- Lead with data: Frame your counter-offer around market research and your qualifications, not personal needs
- Provide a range: Anchor with a range where your target is at the low end (e.g., if you want $120K, say $120K-$135K)
- Negotiate in writing: Email gives you time to be precise and gives the hiring manager something to bring to their team
- Be specific: "$125,000" is more credible than "around $120K or so"
Beyond Base Salary
If the employer cannot move on base salary, consider negotiating:
- Signing bonus
- Annual bonus target or guarantee for year one
- Additional equity or RSUs
- Earlier performance review (6 months instead of 12)
- Remote work days
- Professional development budget
- PTO or vacation days
- Start date flexibility
What to Review in the Final Offer
Once you agree on terms, review the written offer carefully for:
- Compensation matches what was discussed
- Bonus terms are clearly defined with criteria and timing
- Equity vesting schedule and exercise terms
- Non-compete and non-solicitation restrictions
- Severance provisions
When to Consult a Lawyer
Consider consulting an employment attorney for executive-level offers, offers with significant equity, or agreements with restrictive covenants. A brief legal review can identify issues before you are locked into unfavorable terms.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.