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0 of 5 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Research market rate
Step 1: Research market rate
Levels.fyi, Glassdoor, Levels for tech. Industry reports for others. Know the band before you negotiate.
Glassdoor / Indeed for non-tech
Crowdsourced salaries. Less accurate but a starting point.
Ask 3 people in your network
Best data. Awkward to ask, worth it.
2 Step 2: Wait for the offer first
Step 2: Wait for the offer first
Don't volunteer a number before they make an offer. 'I'd like to understand the role better before discussing compensation' is the script.
Deflect early salary questions
'I'd like to understand the role first.' Repeat as needed.
Get offer in writing before responding
Verbal offers vanish. Always written.
3 Step 3: Counter 10-20% higher
Step 3: Counter 10-20% higher
Always counter. The script: 'Thanks for the offer. Based on my research, the market rate is closer to X. Can we get to that number?'
Specific counter with a reason
Cite market data. Cite competing offer if you have one.
Negotiate total comp, not just salary
Sign-on bonus, equity, vacation, remote work. All negotiable.
If they say no on salary: ask for bonus, equity, title
Many companies have salary bands but flexibility on other components.
4 Step 4: Silence is your tool
Step 4: Silence is your tool
After you state your counter, STOP TALKING. They might fill silence with concessions. Most people talk themselves out of the higher offer.
Make counter, then silence
Hardest part. Hold it 30+ seconds. Let them respond.
5 Step 5: Get the final offer in writing
Step 5: Get the final offer in writing
Email confirmation of all terms before you sign. Verbal promises don't pay rent.
Email recap of final terms
All comp components. Reply with 'confirming we agreed on X, Y, Z.'
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