Salary negotiation scripts that work

Negotiation isn't a fight — it's a conversation about fit and value. Going in prepared turns an awkward moment into a few thousand dollars (or more) of difference.

Know your number before the call

Research the market range for the role, level, and location, and decide on three figures: your target, your walk-away minimum, and an ambitious-but-defensible anchor. Lead with the anchor.

Let them name a number first when you can

If asked for expectations early, it's fair to ask about their budgeted range. If you must answer, give a researched range with your target near the bottom.

Negotiate the whole package

• Base salary is only part of it — consider bonus, equity, sign-on, and PTO.
• Ask for time to consider an offer; enthusiasm plus patience reads as confidence.
• Get the final offer in writing before you accept.