Talking about money makes most of us squirm worse than watching our parents dance at a wedding. But avoiding salary negotiation is like leaving money on the table—and that table could’ve been a nicer table if you’d negotiated better.
First, do your homework. Sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry reports give you data on what people in similar roles earn. Knowledge is power, and market rate data is your secret weapon.
When the offer comes, resist the urge to accept immediately (even if you’re mentally doing cartwheels). Instead, express enthusiasm and ask for time to consider. “I’m excited about this opportunity and appreciate the offer. I’d like to take a day to review the details—is that alright?”
Then, negotiate thoughtfully. Don’t just ask for more money—explain why you deserve it. “Based on my experience leading two product launches and the market rate for this role, I was hoping for something closer to X.” Frame it as a collaborative problem-solving exercise, not a battle.
Consider the full package—remote work, flexible hours, professional development, or extra vacation can sometimes be easier for employers to grant than cash.
True story: A friend once negotiated an extra $15K simply by mentioning competing offers and market data. The company didn’t blink—they’d budgeted for it, expecting negotiation.
Remember: If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. And despite what your anxiety whispers at 3 AM, reasonable negotiation won’t cost you the job offer. It might just fund that vacation you’ve been dreaming about.