When should I bring up salary?

After the employer has said they want to hire you, not before. That's when you have the most leverage.

What if they say the offer is final?

Ask what else is negotiable — signing bonus, start date, remote days, review cadence.

The exact script and posture for asking for more — and knowing when to stop.

Almost every offer has room. Not asking is the single most expensive mistake candidates make.

Before you ask, know the range for this title, seniority, and location. Public salary data, past offers, and recruiter conversations all help.

Open 10–15% above what you'd accept, tied to a specific reason: another offer, above-market skill, or a scope larger than the ad implied.

Say the number, then stop talking. Filling the silence weakens your position.

Base is only part of it. Equity, bonus, signing, vacation, remote flexibility, and learning budget all have real value.

1
Research the range
Get 3 data points on typical salaries for this role, seniority, and market.
2
Decide your walk-away
Know the minimum you'll accept before the call.
3
Make one clear ask
State a number and a reason, then stop talking.
4
Negotiate the full package
If base is capped, ask about signing bonus, equity, or extra vacation.