Career Experts Reveal Five Top Tips for Negotiating a Higher Salary
In today’s competitive job market, professionals must not only excel in their roles but also advocate for their worth. New analysis of resume.io’s internal data examines the key priorities of job seekers when searching for a new role. The findings show that nearly one in five (19%) consider salary to be the most crucial factor in their decision-making process. Additionally, Google searches for ‘how to negotiate a higher salary after a job offer examples’ have surged a staggering 1,150% in the past 12 months alone, highlighting a growing demand for salary negotiation advice.
A recent TikTok video by @corporateagonyaunt went viral amassing 275K views. The video emphasised key strategies such as always asking for the top bracket when a salary range is listed in a job advert.
With this in mind, the career experts at resume.io have shared with us five essential tips to help professionals confidently negotiate better compensation and secure the salaries they deserve.
1. Do your market research
Before negotiation, ensure to gather salary data from multiple sources to better understand the industry standard for your role, experience level and location. Websites such as Glassdoor and Salary.com will provide you with a better understanding of what other people in your role are earning.
Once you have a good understanding of the market rate, consider what factors such as years of experience, specialised skills and education that you have which justify a higher salary.
2. Preparation is key
Thorough preparation is crucial for a successful negotiation. Define your ideal salary range before the conversation. Having a justifiable range rather than a single number allows for flexibility. Also, determine the lowest salary you’re willing to accept for the role.
Remember to consider what non-monetary benefits the employer is offering in case the salary flexibility is limited. This may include additional annual leave, professional development allowances or performance-based bonuses.
It is always advised to practice your pitch with a friend or a mentor to build confidence and prepare to answer questions about your salary expectations and explain your reasoning.
3. Highlight your Value
Ensure to make a compelling case to the employer by highlighting your accomplishments and preparing examples of your achievements and contributions that justify a higher salary. Aim to use quantifiable data to showcase your contributions such as revenue growth, efficiency improvements or successful projects.
For example, instead of saying “I improved team productivity” say “ I streamlined workflow processes, leading to a 35% increase in team productivity within a 12 month period.”
It is always advisable to keep a record of your key achievements and metrics as and when they happen throughout your career so you’re always prepared for negotiations.
4. Leverage competing offers
Having multiple job offers can give you leverage. If a competitor is offering a higher salary, use it strategically in your negotiations. Even if you are not actively looking for a new role, knowing what other companies are willing to pay can strengthen your case. Remember, employers are more likely to increase an offer if they know that you have other options.
Try to avoid disclosing your current salary to the employer when possible as this can potentially limit your negotiation range.
5. Remain professional and confident
A confident, positive and professional approach can make a huge difference in the negotiation process. Employers appreciate candidates who advocate for themselves but also show flexibility and gratitude for the opportunity.
Be clear and concise about your salary expectations, express enthusiasm for the role, and remain open to discussions. Remember that negotiation is a two-way conversation, and a professional attitude can set the stage for a successful outcome.
According to Amanda Augustine, resident career expert for resume.io and a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC), “One of the biggest mistakes I see professionals make is assuming a salary offer is set in stone. Most employers expect some level of negotiation—and those who come prepared with the right research and a clear case for their value often walk away with a better offer.”
“A successful salary negotiation isn’t just about asking for more money—it’s about showing the employer why you’re worth it. Instead of throwing out a number and hoping for the best, use data to back it up. Show how your work has made an impact—whether that’s boosting revenue, improving efficiency, or leading successful projects. When you frame the conversation around the value you bring, it’s much easier for them to say ‘yes.’”
“Confidence goes a long way in a salary negotiation. I get it—talking about money can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re excited about the job. But here’s the thing: advocating for fair compensation isn’t pushy or presumptuous—it’s a normal, professional part of the hiring process.”
“Go into the conversation with a positive, collaborative mindset. Show your excitement about the role, and clearly explain how your experience and skills support the compensation you’re requesting. When you’re well-prepared and confident in your request, you’re more likely to land a package that reflects your true value—and that can pay off not just in the short term, but for your long-term career trajectory, too.”