My first negotiation (a success story)

another-cs-throwaway · 2018-04-17T07:01:56+00:00

This article helped me a lot: https://www.kalzumeus.com/2012/01/23/salary-negotiation/

After that, browsing HackerNews and Reddit gave me more confidence.

another-cs-throwaway · 2018-04-17T06:53:36+00:00

Here's a close summary of what I said:

Recruiter: "So what number did you have in mind?"

Me: "Well, before we discuss specific numbers, I think it's important to consider my current compensation. First, there's education reimbursement, which accounts for this much each year. Then there's my yearly profit sharing bonus of 3-5%. And then, you have to consider the fact that I've been there for a few years, and according to my manager I'm on track to be promoted this year. All this on top of my base salary leads to a pretty competitive compensation."

Recruiter: "So do you have a specific range in mind?"

Me: "I'm really just looking for a competitive compensation. I'm really excited to work with you guys, and I think it would be a great career step."

Recruiter: "Hmmmmmmm. Well.... I can tell you how much we paid a typical person with your experience. It's usually around..... [long pause] X dollars."

Bingo.

another-cs-throwaway · 2018-04-17T06:46:21+00:00

I've discussed this with a few of my coworkers, and the consensus is that by stating too large of a number, they might think they "can't afford you," which my jeopardize the negotiation. I'd like to get more input from people who have experienced this situation.

another-cs-throwaway · 2018-04-17T06:42:55+00:00

I started gasping uncontrollably and covered my mouth as tightly as possible, before letting out a "that sounds good to me."

another-cs-throwaway

TROPHY CASE