Salary Negotiation Guide: How to Get What You Deserve
Here's the truth most people don't realize: almost every job offer is negotiable. I've coached hundreds of job seekers through negotiations, and the ones who ask almost always get more. Let me show you how.
The Mindset Shift You Need
Stop thinking of negotiation as confrontational. Think of it this way: the company has already decided they want YOU. They've invested time and money in the hiring process. A reasonable negotiation isn't going to make them rescind the offer — it's expected.
In my experience, only about 30% of candidates negotiate. That means 70% leave money on the table. Don't be in that 70%.
Step 1: Do Your Research First
Before you negotiate, you need data. Here's where to find it:
- Glassdoor and Levels.fyi for company-specific salary data
- LinkedIn Salary Insights (requires Premium, but worth it)
- Blind app for anonymous salary sharing (especially tech)
- Ask recruiters directly — they often share ranges
- Talk to people in similar roles (yes, it can feel awkward, but do it)
Step 2: Calculate Your Number
You need three numbers going into any negotiation:
- 1Your "walk away" number
The minimum you'd accept to take this job
- 2Your target number
What you'd be genuinely happy with
- 3Your aspirational number
Your opening ask (aim 10-20% above target)
Step 3: What to Actually Say
Here's a script that works. Feel free to adapt it to your style:
"Thank you so much for the offer — I'm really excited about this opportunity. Based on my research into market rates for this role and location, and considering my [specific experience/skills], I was hoping we could discuss a base salary of [your aspirational number]. Is that something you'd be open to?"
Notice what this does: it's grateful, it's specific, and it ends with an open question. You're not demanding — you're opening a conversation.
Track Multiple Offers
Negotiating is easier when you have options. Use ApplyBolt to manage multiple opportunities and make confident decisions.
Start Tracking Free →If They Say No to Salary...
Salary isn't the only thing you can negotiate. If they're firm on base pay, consider:
- Signing bonus (often easier to get approved than base increase)
- Extra vacation days or flexible work arrangements
- Earlier performance review with salary adjustment
- Stock options or equity (at startups especially)
- Professional development budget or conference attendance
- Remote work flexibility
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Accepting immediately out of excitement (always take 24-48 hours)
- ✗Giving your salary history or expectations first — make them go first
- ✗Negotiating over email when a call would be better
- ✗Being aggressive or treating it as a battle
- ✗Forgetting to get the final offer in writing
The Bottom Line
Negotiating your salary is one of the highest-value activities you can do for your career. A $5K bump in starting salary compounds over your entire career through raises, bonuses, and future job offers. Take the 30 minutes to prepare and have the conversation. You've got this.