Salary negotiation doesn’t have to feel awkward—or adversarial. The best outcomes usually come from simple preparation, clear framing, and calm delivery. If you’re about to negotiate (or want to be ready for your next offer), here’s a practical 30-minute plan you can use today.

Step 1 (10 minutes): Define your “numbers”

Before you talk to anyone, get crystal clear on three figures:

• Target: the number you want (ambitious but defensible)
• Floor: the lowest you’ll accept without resentment
• Walk-away: the point where the role no longer makes sense

Why this matters: negotiations are emotional. Having pre-set boundaries keeps you from saying “yes” under pressure.

Step 2 (10 minutes): Anchor with market reality

Bring data—not vibes. Use 2–3 sources (levels.fyi, Glassdoor, LinkedIn salary insights, industry peers) and write a one-sentence summary:

“Based on market data for [Role] in [Location/Remote] and my [X years / niche skills], I’m seeing a typical range around [$A–$B].”

Tip: If the role is remote, clarify whether pay is location-based or national. Remote pay policies vary wildly, and it changes your leverage.

Step 3 (10 minutes): Build your value script

Prepare three proof points that connect directly to business outcomes:

• Increased revenue, reduced costs, improved efficiency
• Ownership of critical systems or cross-functional leadership
• Specialized skills that reduce risk (security, compliance, reliability, etc.)

Use this structure:

• What you did → how you did it → impact (numbers if possible)

Example:

• “I led X initiative by doing Y, resulting in Z measurable improvement.”

What to negotiate beyond base salary

Many candidates leave money on the table by focusing only on base. Consider asking about:

• Signing bonus (especially if you’re giving up a bonus/vesting at your current job)
• Equity (and the details: grant size, vesting schedule, refreshers)
• Benefits (health premiums, PTO, learning stipend)
• Review timeline (a 3–6 month compensation review can be powerful)

A simple phrase that keeps it collaborative

Try:

“I’m excited about the role. If we can get the overall package closer to [target], I’m confident I can sign quickly.”

It signals enthusiasm and sets a clear next step.

What part of salary negotiation is toughest for you right now—figuring out your number, making the ask, handling pushback, or negotiating equity/bonuses?