Checklist #29 · Income
Salary Negotiation Preparation
Structured preparation to maximize your compensation outcomes — from researching market rates to navigating the negotiation conversation with confidence.
19 action items~15 min to complete4 sections
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Market Research
0/5 completed
Research market salary for your role, level, and location on 3+ sourcesKey
Find the salary range — not just the averageAction
Adjust for cost of living if relocating or negotiating remote workWatch out
Research the company's compensation philosophy and recent funding
Talk to people currently in or recently from the role or companyKey
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Know Your Value
0/4 completed
List your top 3–5 measurable achievements in your current or recent roleKey
Calculate your current total compensation (salary + bonus + equity + benefits)Action
Identify your competing offers or BATNA (Best Alternative to Negotiated Agreement)Watch out
Set your three numbers: target, walk-away, and 'I'd be delighted'Key
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The Negotiation Conversation
0/6 completed
Delay disclosing your current salary for as long as legally possibleWatch out
Let the employer make the first offer when possible
When countering, provide justification — not just a numberAction
Negotiate total comp, not just base: bonus, equity, sign-on, start date, PTO, remote flexibilityKey
Use silence strategically after stating your number
Get the final offer in writing before resigning from your current roleWatch out
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Evaluating the Full Offer
0/4 completed
Calculate the total annualized value of the offer including all componentsKey
Review health insurance quality, not just whether it's offered
Understand equity vesting schedule, cliff, and any acceleration provisionsWatch out
Confirm the 401(k) match and vesting schedule on the employer contribution