How to Negotiate a Salary Offer

Prepare: Research, Numbers, and Your BATNA

Before you respond to an offer, do three things: research market pay, define your minimum acceptable package, and clarify your BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement). Use sites like Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, PayScale, and LinkedIn Salary to find salary ranges for your title, level, and location. Aim to target the 60th–75th percentile if you have the experience and demonstrated impact — that usually means asking for 10%–20% above the mid-point. Write down your key achievements and metrics (revenue you drove, efficiency gains, numbers of projects led) so you can justify a higher figure. Finally, define your BATNA: is there another offer, a freelancing option, or can you stay in your current role? Knowing your alternatives prevents you from accepting a low offer out of uncertainty.

Execute: Conversation Strategies and Scripts

When it’s time to talk, choose the right moment and channel: a live call or video meeting is best for the initial negotiation, and follow up in writing. Start by expressing enthusiasm, then present your rationale: highlight market data and specific achievements that justify your ask. Use anchoring: propose a specific salary number or narrow range rather than a vague percentage. For example, say, ‘Based on market data and my experience leading X, I’m looking for $95,000–$105,000.’ If the employer counters, pause, ask clarifying questions, and prioritize interests over positions: is budget firm, or can more compensation be found through bonuses, equity, or perks? Use silence strategically after you make your request — it gives the employer space to respond. Avoid apologetic language and never disclose your bottom line first. If you need time, say, ‘I appreciate the offer — may I have 48 hours to review it?’

Expand the Deal and Close Gracefully

If the employer can’t meet your base salary, negotiate total compensation: signing bonuses, performance bonuses, equity, additional vacation, flexible hours, professional development stipends, or an earlier salary review (e.g., a 6-month performance-based raise). Be specific: request a $5,000 signing bonus or a documented 6-month salary review with objective KPIs. Get all agreed terms in writing in a revised offer letter. If you accept, confirm start date and next steps; if you decline, do so professionally to preserve relationships — thank them and explain your decision briefly. After closing, send a courteous acceptance email summarizing the agreed compensation and any conditional items so there’s a clear record.