SALARY NEGOTIATION GUIDE
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BEFORE NEGOTIATION
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1. RESEARCH MARKET RATES
   - Use salary websites (Glassdoor, Payscale, LinkedIn)
   - Consider location and cost of living
   - Factor in your experience level
   - Research industry standards

2. KNOW YOUR WORTH
   - List your unique skills and experience
   - Quantify your achievements
   - Consider your education and certifications
   - Factor in market demand for your skills

3. DETERMINE YOUR RANGE
   - Minimum acceptable salary
   - Target salary (realistic goal)
   - Ideal salary (stretch goal)
   - Consider total compensation, not just salary

DURING NEGOTIATION
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1. TIMING
   - Wait for the offer
   - Express enthusiasm first
   - Then discuss compensation

2. STRATEGY
   - Start with a range, not a specific number
   - Justify your request with research
   - Be professional and respectful
   - Consider the full package (benefits, PTO, etc.)

3. PHRASES TO USE
   - "Based on my research and experience..."
   - "I'm excited about this opportunity, and I was hoping we could discuss..."
   - "I appreciate the offer. Given my experience in..."
   - "I'm flexible, but I was thinking more in the range of..."

WHAT TO NEGOTIATE
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✓ Base salary
✓ Signing bonus
✓ Performance bonuses
✓ Stock options/equity
✓ Vacation/PTO
✓ Flexible work arrangements
✓ Professional development budget
✓ Health benefits
✓ Start date

WHAT NOT TO DO
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✗ Accept the first offer immediately
✗ Make ultimatums
✗ Compare to other offers aggressively
✗ Negotiate without research
✗ Be confrontational
✗ Focus only on salary

AFTER NEGOTIATION
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• Get the offer in writing
• Review all terms carefully
• Respond within the given timeframe
• Express gratitude regardless of outcome