Should I negotiate my salary?
The short answer
Always. The worst case is the same offer. Ask once, professionally, with a number backed by market data — companies expect it and rarely rescind for asking.
Signals to weigh
- 01The offer is competitive but not exceptional for your role and location.
- 02You have market data — Levels.fyi, Glassdoor, recruiter conversations.
- 03You have leverage — another offer, a strong current job, scarce skills.
- 04You're negotiating the whole package, not just base.
How to decide
- Step 1Get 3 data points on market rate for the level and city.
- Step 2Ask once, in writing, with a specific number and a reason.
- Step 3Negotiate the full package — base, equity, sign-on, PTO, start date.
- Step 4Silence is a tool. After you ask, wait.
Framework used
Pre-Mortem →Full walkthrough of the framework, with examples and pitfalls.
Consider these alternatives
- ·Negotiate non-cash items — remote flexibility, title, review timing — if base is fixed.
- ·Accept and re-open at the 6-month mark tied to performance.
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