How much salary should I ask for in a new job?
Robert Miller
Updated on March 26, 2026
When negotiating a salary for a new job If you are negotiating the salary for a new position or a job at a new company, asking for 10% to 20% more than what you currently make is often the general rule.
What should I say when negotiating salary?
“I’m very excited about the position and know that I’d be the right fit for the team. I’m also excited about your offer, and knowing that I’ll bring a lot of value to the table based on my experience that we discussed during the interviews, I’m wondering if we can explore a slightly higher starting salary of $60,000.
Can negotiating salary backfire?
Don’t negotiate your salary until you have a firm offer; jumping the gun and trying to negotiate for more money when they haven’t even made you an offer is bound to backfire.
Is it OK to ask for more money after accepting a job offer?
If you ask for more money and the answer is no, you can still accept the job if you want it! People sometimes worry they’ll look foolish accepting at this point, but you won’t; people accept offers after thwarted negotiations all the time. And remember, negotiating salary is very normal!
Should you always ask for more money when offered a job?
Should you attempt to squeeze a few more dollars out of your new employer? No, you should not. They’re going to be annoyed and wonder if you’re going to be a total prima donna. It’s always best to thank a potential employer for the offer, and then say you’d like to sleep on it.
What should you not say during salary negotiation?
I’m not comfortable sharing my current salary. I would prefer to focus on the value I can add to this company rather than what I’m paid at my current job. I don’t have a specific number in mind for a desired salary, and you know better than I do what value my skill set and experience could bring to your company.
What should I negotiate when I get a job offer?
Salary is usually the first thing you should start negotiating. How close the hiring manager comes to meeting your salary requirements may determine how hard you try to negotiate other items.
When is the best time to negotiate your salary?
Typically, it’s best to negotiate your salary after you receive an offer rather than during earlier stages of the interview process. You have the most leverage after you’ve proven that you’re the best candidate for the job and you fully understand the employer’s expectations.
What happens if you don’t negotiate starting salary?
Not doing so could mean you’re leaving money on the table. According to ZipRecruiter , 64% of people accept the first offer they receive without negotiating their starting salary. Here’s why you shouldn’t be one of them.
What happens when you negotiate a better job title?
Negotiating a better title when you accept the job can mean a lot for your prospects, showing that you’ve achieved growth and are on an upward trajectory in your career, even if the work hasn’t changed substantially from your old position to the new one. Sometimes, changing the job title when you first start isn’t an option.