A clear, practical guide to negotiating your salary, whether for a new offer or a raise. Know your number, make the ask well, and back it with evidence. Then present it on a resume that earns the offer.
The strongest position in any negotiation is information. Research the typical pay for your role, seniority and location using salary data, job postings and people in your network, and settle on a target and a walk-away figure before the conversation.
Frame your ask around value, not need. What you have delivered and can deliver is far more persuasive than personal expenses.
When you can, let the employer put the first number on the table, then respond with a range whose bottom is still above your target. Anchor slightly high but stay realistic for the market, and always negotiate the full package: base, bonus, equity, joining bonus, leave and flexibility.
For a raise, book the conversation in advance, bring a short written case of your results, and ask for a specific figure rather than a vague more.
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How do I negotiate my salary for a new job?
Research the market rate for the role and location, decide your target and walk-away number, and where possible let the employer name a figure first. Respond with a researched range anchored slightly high, and negotiate the whole package, not just base pay. Always get the final offer in writing.
How much should I ask for in a salary negotiation?
Base your ask on market data for your role, seniority and location rather than a fixed percentage. A common approach is to respond with a range whose lower end is still above your target, and to justify it with the value you bring.
How do I ask for a raise?
Book the conversation in advance, bring a short written case of your results and impact, and ask for a specific figure rather than a vague increase. Tie the request to your contribution and the market rate for your role.
Is it rude to negotiate salary?
No. Employers expect candidates to negotiate, and a professional, evidence-based ask rarely costs you an offer. Negotiating respectfully signals that you understand your value.
Please note: Outputs are AI-generated and can contain errors. Use them as a starting point and check anything important before you act on it.
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