The #1 Rule Of Negotiation - How To Avoid Giving A Number

• Negotiation is a dance: Know your role within it and have a script.
• There's an asymmetry here:
  • Recruiters are talking to candidates and negotiating every day. They come in very prepared and have a script.
  • You will change jobs every 2-3 year - It's a rare event for you to have this conversation. To level the playing field, you should have a script too.
• If they ask for a number or range, say "I'm more concerned with understanding if this opportunity is right for me." This is polite while positioning yourself in a mutual respect scenario.
• If they refuse to move forward within a number, you can try:
  • "What are typical compensation bands for this role?"
  • "I'm a strong performer in my current role and expect to be promoted soon, so I'm not sure what's fair."
• If they require a number, put a placeholder and say you'll get back to it later
• Asking for a number is generally a predatory way for companies to take advantage of candidates and lowball them.
  • This is why in California, it is illegal for employers to ask your prior compensation information

Related resources:

• 3 Quick, Powerful Negotiation Tips
• How To Negotiate A Raise At Your Current Job