Never walk into a negotiation unprepared.

The best time is after receiving an offer but before accepting it. For existing roles, annual performance reviews or after completing a major project are ideal. Never negotiate during a crisis or when the company is going through layoffs.

In-person or video call negotiations are generally more effective for building rapport and reading reactions. Email is better for documenting your case and when you need time to craft your response. Our tool generates both formats.

Research suggests asking for 10-20% above the initial offer. Start higher than your target to leave room for negotiation. Always back your ask with market data and your specific achievements.

Don't panic. Ask what it would take to get there, negotiate other benefits (signing bonus, equity, PTO, remote flexibility), and propose a timeline for a follow-up review with specific goals.

Professional negotiation rarely costs you an offer. Employers expect it. What can hurt is being aggressive, giving ultimatums, or being unprepared. A well-researched, respectful ask is always appropriate.

Use our Salary Comparison tool to benchmark your role across markets. Combine data from multiple sources: salary surveys, job postings, industry reports, and professional networks.

In many regions (including parts of the US), employers can't ask. Even where they can, try to redirect: 'I'm targeting a range of X based on market data.' Focus on value, not history.

When base salary is fixed, negotiate: signing bonus, equity/RSUs, remote work flexibility, PTO, professional development budget, title upgrades, performance review timeline, relocation support, or a guaranteed salary review after 6 months.