Negotiating your salary feels uncomfortable. But so does being €10,000 below market for years. Here's how to do it right.
1. Know your number before the conversation
Never enter a negotiation without data. Use our salary checker to establish your market rate. Come with a specific figure, not a range.
2. Let them go first — when possible
If asked for your expectation in an interview, try to get the budget range first. "I'd love to understand the range budgeted for this role before sharing my expectation."
3. Anchor high
Your first number sets the frame. If you're worth €80,000, ask for €87,000. You'll likely land somewhere in between.
4. Don't justify — quantify
Don't say "I've been working really hard." Say "I led the project that generated €200k in new revenue last quarter."
5. Silence is your friend
After you name your number, stop talking. The first person to fill the silence tends to concede ground.
6. Negotiate the full package
If base salary is fixed, negotiate on bonus, equity, remote days, start date, or a 6-month review with a salary adjustment trigger.
7. Get it in writing
Verbal agreements disappear. Confirm every negotiated term via email before you sign anything.
Before your next negotiation, check where you stand in the market. Knowledge is leverage.