The salary negotiation meeting

What is a salary negotiation meeting?

This meeting follows the last interview round, once the employer decides to hire you. It covers salary, contract length, hours, vacation days, retirement plan, commuting costs, remote work, and training opportunities. The employer often makes a proposal and you respond to it. You don't have to say yes right away: asking for time to think it over is normal, and everything you agree on should end up in your contract afterward.

How to prepare

1. 1Decide your bottom line ahead of time. Below what amount will you say no, and what's your backup plan if it doesn't work out? Decide that at home, not at the table.
2. 2Find out what the role is worth. Look at the range in the job posting, the cao if there is one, and what similar roles pay in your area.
3. 3Gather your arguments from your own resume: results you've achieved, experience that matches the job posting exactly, and what you bring that other candidates don't.
4. 4List what you want besides salary. There's often more room there than in the number itself, especially with employers under a cao.
5. 5Prepare answers for pushback like "that doesn't fit the budget" or "we want to see what you can do first." Expecting them helps you stay calm.

What can you ask for besides salary?

Salary is one line in your contract. These parts matter just as much together, and they're often easier to negotiate.

• Remote work: how many days, and whether it's fixed or agreed on week by week.
• Training budget: a set amount per year, or a specific course the employer pays for.
• Vacation days: there's often room above the legal minimum, especially if the salary is fixed.
• Commuting costs and a remote work allowance: small amounts that add up per month.
• Retirement plan: how much the employer contributes and whether you're enrolled right away.
• A review point: a meeting after six months with an agreed salary increase if things go well, in writing.
• Contract length and probation period: a longer contract or a shorter probation period gives you security that's worth money.

What can I ask for as a salary?

That depends on the role, the region, your experience, and what the job posting says. A rule of thumb: name a range where the low end is your actual target, and back it up with what you've achieved, not with what you need. Want a number that fits your job posting, with real wage data and arguments from your own resume? The salary negotiation tool calculates it for you and gives you a cheat sheet for the meeting.

Frequently asked questions about the salary negotiation meeting

Who brings up salary first?

Let the employer make the first offer if you can. If you do have to name a number first, give a range where the low end is your actual target, since employers tend to remember the low end.

Can I ask for time to think it over?

Yes, and it's a smart move. A few days is normal. Ask for the offer in writing so you can compare it calmly at home.

What if the offer is below my minimum?

Say so, along with your reasoning, and ask what else is possible: a higher number, a review with an agreed-upon raise, or better terms outside of salary. If it still falls short, saying no is a valid answer.

Should I get everything in writing?

Yes. Anything not in your employment contract or an attachment stops existing the moment your manager changes. The same goes for a review: agree right away on what you'll be evaluated on.