Negotiating is normal in the US, and a polite, well-supported request rarely costs you an offer. Pay transparency laws have also made it easier: many job postings now show the range the employer expects to pay.
Know the range before you talk
- Read the posting. Laws in a growing number of states and cities, including California, Colorado, Illinois, New York and Washington, require employers to publish a pay range in job ads. On USA Jobs 24, listings that include one show it on the job card.
- Check market data. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes typical pay by occupation in its Occupational Outlook Handbook. Compare similar roles at a few employers too.
- Adjust for location and level. The same title can pay very differently in San Francisco and in St. Louis, and between a level 2 and a level 3 role.
When they ask what you expect
If the posting has a range, you can say you are aiming for a specific point within it, based on your experience. If there is no range, ask what the budgeted range is before giving a number. Give a figure you would be happy with, not your bare minimum. In many states employers cannot ask about your salary history, and you do not have to volunteer it.
How to ask for more
- Thank them and say you are excited about the role.
- Name a specific number, not a range, and give one or two reasons: your experience, a skill the role needs, or a competing offer.
- Stop talking and let them respond. Ask for time to think if you need it; a day or two is normal.
For example: "I'm really excited about this role. Given my five years running Salesforce migrations, I was hoping for a base salary of $118,000. Is there flexibility to get there?"
More than base pay
- Sign-on bonus: often easier to approve than a higher salary.
- Annual bonus or equity: ask how they are calculated and when they vest.
- Title or level, which affects future raises.
- Start date, paid time off, remote or hybrid days, and relocation support.
Get it in writing
Once you agree, ask for the final offer in writing before you resign from your current job. Our guide to understanding a job offer explains what each part means.
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