The Salary Negotiation Framework
Research shows 70% of employers expect candidates to negotiate, yet only 39% actually do. Not negotiating can cost you over $1 million in lifetime earnings.
Step 1: Research Your Market Value
- Glassdoor & Levels.fyi — Check salary ranges for your role
- LinkedIn Salary Insights — Compare with peers
- Use our Salary Guide for industry benchmarks
Step 2: Timing Is Everything
Negotiate after receiving a written offer, not during interviews. When asked early about expectations, deflect:
I would love to learn more about the role first. I am confident we can find a number that works for both of us.
Step 3: The Negotiation Script
Thank you for this offer. Based on my research and the value I bring — including [specific achievement] — I was targeting a base salary in the range of [X-Y].
Step 4: Beyond Base Salary
If base is firm, negotiate: signing bonus, equity/RSUs, remote flexibility, PTO, professional development budget, or title.
Common Mistakes
- Accepting the first offer without negotiating
- Sharing your current salary
- Being aggressive or confrontational
- Focusing only on salary, ignoring total compensation
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