How to Negotiate Your Salary Like a Pro

Do your research

Before you even start the negotiation process, it's important to do your homework and figure out what salaries are typical for the position you're applying for. Sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn can be helpful resources in this regard. Once you have a ballpark number in mind, you'll be in a better position to negotiate. 

Start high

When it comes time to actually discuss numbers, it's always best to start high. The initial offer is usually not the final offer, so there's room to move down from there. But if you start too low, you might not be able to make up the difference later on.

Be prepared to compromise

Of course, there's always give-and-take in any negotiation. So be prepared to compromise on other aspects of the job if it means getting the salary you want—things like vacation days, flexible hours, or working from home could all be up for grabs. Figure out what's most important to you before entering into negotiations so that you know what you're willing to trade away. 

Be confident—but not arrogant

It's important that you exude confidence during negotiations so that your potential employer knows that you believe in your worthiness for the position (and the corresponding salary). At the same time, however, don't be arrogant or cocky—no one wants to work with someone who comes across as difficult or entitled. Find a happy medium between being assertive and being easy-going, and you should be in good shape. 

Don't forget about benefits
Beneficial programs like health insurance, 401(k)s, dental plans, etc., can all have a significant impact on your overall compensation package—so don't forget to factor them into negotiations as well! If your potential employer isn't willing to budge on salary, see if there's room for movement on benefits instead. It could end up being a win-win situation for both parties involved.          

Say thank you (even if you don't get everything you wanted).

Finally, even if negotiations don't go exactly as planned, remember to express gratitude for the opportunity and extend an olive branch by saying something like "I'm really excited about this job and I'm confident we can come to an agreement that works well for both of us." There's always room for further discussion down the road—and burning bridges certainly won't help your cause!     

Hopefully these tips will give you the confidence you need to approach salary negotiations with ease (and hopefully get the pay bump you're hoping for). Best of luck!