Not negotiating your salary is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make. A single negotiation can be worth hundreds of thousands over your career.
Real Example
Getting $5,000 more at age 25, with 3% annual raises and 40 years of work = $430,000 difference in lifetime earnings. One conversation.
When to Negotiate
- New job offers (this is when you have the most leverage)
- Annual reviews
- After taking on significant new responsibilities
- When you have another offer
Do Your Research First
Do This
Before any negotiation:
- Research salary ranges on Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Levels.fyi
- Know the range for your role, location, and experience
- Talk to people in similar roles if possible
You need data, not feelings, to negotiate effectively.
The Negotiation Conversation
Pro Tip
Let them name the first number. If forced to go first, give a range with your target at the bottom.
When they make an offer:
"Thank you for the offer. I'm excited about this role. Based on my research and experience, I was expecting something in the range of [X to Y]. Is there flexibility there?"
Then stop talking. Silence is powerful.
What If They Say No?
Do This
Negotiate beyond base salary:
- Signing bonus
- Performance bonus
- Extra vacation days
- Remote work flexibility
- Earlier review for raise
- Professional development budget
- Stock options or equity
Even if base salary is firm, these add real value.
Common Mistakes
Avoid This
- Not negotiating at all (biggest mistake)
- Giving a number before they do
- Accepting immediately (it's okay to take 24-48 hours)
- Making it personal ("I need more because of my bills")
- Threatening to leave (unless you will)
Scripts That Work
For a new job: "I'm thrilled about this opportunity. The role is a great fit. I was hoping for [amount]. Is there room to get closer to that number?"
For a raise: "I've taken on [specific responsibilities], achieved [specific results], and researched market rates for my role. I'd like to discuss adjusting my compensation to [$X]."
The Bottom Line
Quick Win
The worst they can say is no—and they rarely rescind offers over negotiation. Prepare, be professional, and ask.