Get Paid What You’re Worth: How to Negotiate a Better Salary and Perks

Manousos A. Klados
Jul 3
3 min read

Updated: Jul 8

Why Negotiation Matters

So, you’ve landed a job offer. Congratulations! But before you sign on the dotted line, there’s a critical step many overlook or rush through: negotiation.

Most people get uncomfortable talking about money and benefits. Some fear the offer might get pulled if they ask for more. But here’s the reality: companies expect you to negotiate, and failing to do so could mean leaving thousands of dollars — and career satisfaction — on the table.

Whether you’re an early-career professional or a seasoned expert, this guide will walk you through how to secure a better deal in your next job.

Do Your Homework: Know the Market and Yourself

Research salaries and benefits

Before you start negotiating, arm yourself with data. Sites like Glassdoor, Levels.fyi (for tech), Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary can give you a ballpark figure of what people in similar roles are making. Better yet, talk to real people in your network or professional communities.

Understand your own priorities

What matters most to you? It could be base pay, equity, flexible hours, professional development budget, remote options, or visa support. Write down your top 3 — 4 must-haves. Negotiation is about the whole package, not just the salary.

Timing is Everything: When to Start the Conversation

Wait until you have a formal offer — then the power shifts. Up until then, it’s about convincing them you’re the right hire. Once they extend the offer, they’ve decided they want you, and you’re in a stronger position to negotiate.

If they ask your salary expectations early on, you can respond with:

“I’m more interested in finding the right fit and understanding the responsibilities. Once we determine that, I’m sure we can agree on compensation.”

Or if pushed:

“Based on my research, for this role and location, I’d expect something in the range of [your range]. But I’m open to discussing based on the entire package.”

The Actual Ask: How to Frame Your Negotiation

Be confident, but collaborative. You want this to feel like a mutual problem-solving exercise, not a fight.

Try language like:

“I’m really excited about this role and the team. Given my experience with [specific skill or achievement], I was expecting something closer to [your number]. Is there flexibility there?”

Or:

“Thanks for the offer. Based on my research and what I bring to the table, I believe [$X] would be a fair base. Is that something we can explore?”

Don’t Just Focus on Salary: Negotiate the Entire Package

Salary isn’t the only lever. You can also negotiate:

✅ Signing bonus

✅ Equity / stock options

✅ Annual bonus

✅ Extra vacation days

✅ Work-from-home days

✅ Education stipends or conferences

✅ Relocation expenses

✅ A later or earlier start date

Sometimes, if salary is rigid, companies can offer more PTO or a higher sign-on bonus.

Get It in Writing

Once you’ve agreed on the revised terms, ask for an updated offer letter. A verbal agreement is nice, but you need everything documented before you give notice at your current job.

Common Fears — and Why They’re Usually Overblown

“What if they rescind the offer?”

Very unlikely. If they made you an offer, they want you. Reasonable negotiation won’t scare them off.

“Won’t they think I’m greedy?”

No. They’ll think you’re a professional who knows your worth.

“What if they say no?”

Then you can decide if the original offer is still acceptable or if you’d rather walk away. Either way, you lose nothing by asking.

A Final Note: It’s Not Just About This Job

Getting a better starting salary doesn’t just mean more money today — it compounds over your career. Raises and bonuses often work off your base pay. By negotiating now, you set yourself up for higher earnings for years to come.

Closing Thoughts

Negotiating is a normal part of the hiring process. The key is preparation, clarity on your priorities, and a calm, collaborative approach. Remember, you’re not just trying to squeeze the employer for more money; you’re working together to create a package that sets you up to do your best work.

If you’ve ever negotiated (or wish you had), drop a comment and share your experience. Let’s help each other build the confidence to get what we’re truly worth.