28 June 2026 · 8 min read
Negotiation is not confrontation — it is the final collaborative step of a hiring process both sides have already invested in heavily.
Anchor on market data, not on your current salary. Bring three comparable benchmarks and reference the value you will create in the first year.
Use a calm, specific ask: 'Based on the scope we discussed and market range for this level, I was targeting X. Is there flexibility to get there?' Then stop talking.
Remember the whole package: signing bonus, equity refresh, review timing, remote allowance and title all move independently of base salary.