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How to negotiate salary professionally

Discuss pay confidently using evidence, timing and a realistic range.

Use this guide as a working checklist

Read each section, apply it to your own job search and keep only claims that you can support with real evidence.

01

Research before naming a number

  • Compare similar roles, location, experience and responsibilities.
  • Separate guaranteed base salary from bonus or OTE.
02

Choose the right moment

  • Early screening calls may only need a broad expectation.
  • Detailed negotiation is usually strongest after the employer decides you are a preferred candidate.
03

Make an evidence-based request

  • Use a range rather than an unexplained single figure.
  • Connect the request to relevant experience, results, scarce skills or added responsibility.
04

Consider the whole package

  • Review pension, bonus, commission, leave, flexibility, training and progression.
  • Ask for the final offer in writing before deciding.
Final checklist

Check your work before moving on