Salary negotiation
Training 575 minutessalary negotiation
You are 29, a cost estimator. Your dream company invites you to the final interview. You earn $3,200 now and are afraid of scaring off the offer.
Training goal: Land an offer above their first number
▶ Play this trainingSituation
1. The recruiter asks: "What are your salary expectations?"
- Say your current $3,200
- Give a market range: $3,800 to $4,200
- Say "whatever you think is fair"
2. The offer arrives: $3,700. You are glad but sense there is room.
- Accept now before they change their mind
- Thank them and counter at $4,000 with reasons
- Demand $5,000 or walk away
3. The reply: "We cannot do $4,000. The most is $3,850."
- Accept $3,850 and ask for a review in 6 months
- Turn it down on principle
- Accept but stay resentful
4. Everything is agreed verbally. Start date is in two weeks.
- Resign from the old job today
- Ask for a written offer with all terms
- Tell every coworker about the new salary
What you will learn
- Do not anchor on your current pay. Give a market range.
- A polite counter is normal and rarely costs the offer.
- When pay hits a ceiling, negotiate terms and get it all in writing.
Your real-life step
Find 10 job ads for your role with listed pay. Take the median: that is your anchor number.
Questions and answers
Should I name a salary number first?
Ideally learn the company’s range first. If pressed, give a market range with room at the top.
Can an offer be withdrawn if I negotiate?
Rarely, if the request is polite and backed by reasons. Ultimatums and harsh tone carry more risk.
What can I negotiate besides salary?
A signing bonus, a review date, paid leave, remote days, training budget, equipment.
More trainings in this module
Numbers are illustrative. A game, not financial advice.