Tips for negotiating your salary (from an ex-FAANG recruiter), by mayuko on YouTube. 12 min 14 s.
- Video length
- 12 min 14 s
- Time to do it
- 1 hour of preparation
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Before you apply, look up pay for the same role and level in your city on Levels.fyi, Glassdoor or Blind. Write down the low, middle and high of that range.
Set two numbers for yourself: a target a little above the middle of the range, and a walk-away minimum. Keep both private.
Expect the salary expectations question early, often in the first recruiter screen. Have your answer ready before that call.
If they ask for your number first, say you would rather hear the budgeted range for the role. Then ask what range they have in mind.
Do not anchor the conversation yourself. Let the recruiter name a range or make the first offer, then respond to that number.
Hold the detailed money talk until you have an offer or at least a final round booked. Before that, keep it to ranges only.
When the offer arrives, ask for the full package in writing: base, bonus, equity, sign-on and start date. Read it before you reply.
Have the negotiation on a call rather than over email. Tone is easier to keep warm and questions get answered faster.
Make one clear counter: a specific number, the market data behind it, and your enthusiasm for the role. Then pause and let them answer.
Get the revised offer in writing and check every line before you accept or hand in your notice.
Tips and common mistakes
Recruiters expect a counter, so asking once for more is normal and not rude.
Never inflate your current salary, because it is easy to check and it damages trust.
If the base is fixed, ask about a sign-on bonus, more equity, an earlier start date or an early review instead.
Stay warm and appreciative on the call; the recruiter usually wants you to sign.
Questions
What if the recruiter insists on a number?
Give a wide range from your research and say the exact figure depends on the full package. That answers the question without locking you in.
Should I negotiate by email or on a call?
A call is better for tone and quick back and forth. Send a short email afterwards summarising what you both agreed.
Can I negotiate after I accept?
It is much harder once you have signed. Raise your counter before you accept, while they still want you to say yes.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
