How to negotiate for a better salary

Negotiating your salary isn’t just a checkbox in your career—it’s a moment that can change your financial future. Yet, for many of us, the thought of asking for more can be nerve-wracking. What if they say no? What if it backfires? The truth is, most employers expect you to negotiate—and those who do often walk away with not just more money, but more respect.

Here’s a step-by-step, real-world guide to help you negotiate your next salary with confidence, clarity, and a little bit of courage.

Why Salary Negotiation is Worth It

Think about it: a 7% higher starting salary doesn’t just mean a bigger paycheck today—it can add up to nearly 40% more over the course of your career. That’s the power of compounding. Yet, studies show fewer than half of job seekers negotiate their offers, leaving lakhs (or even crores) on the table over a lifetime.

In 2025, with remote work, transparent pay bands, and flexible compensation structures, you have more leverage than ever. Don’t let hesitation hold you back.

1. Do Your Homework: Research Like a Pro

The best negotiators walk in prepared.
Before you even start the conversation, spend time understanding what your skills are worth in the current market.

• Use salary tools: Platforms like LinkedIn Salary Insights, Glassdoor, AmbitionBox, and Payscale can give you a real sense of what others in your role and city are earning.

• Check job postings: Many companies now list salary ranges. Use these as your anchor.

• Talk to people: Don’t underestimate the power of a discreet chat with peers or mentors in your industry.

• Set a range: Instead of a single number, decide on a realistic range based on your research.
  Pro tip: Aim for the top of your range—anchoring high is proven to get better results.

2. Show Them Your Value—Don’t Just State Your Need

Salary isn’t just about what you want—it’s about what you bring.

• Prepare a “value pitch”: List your biggest achievements. Did you increase sales, save time, or launch a successful project? Quantify it: “I improved process efficiency by 25%,” or “I managed a team that delivered ₹50 lakh in new business.”

• Highlight in-demand skills: Are you great at data analysis, project management, or leading hybrid teams? These are hot skills in 2025.

• Even freshers can negotiate: Don’t be shy if you’re early in your career. If you’ve interned, volunteered, or led a college club, share your impact. Data shows that freshers who negotiate with confidence succeed over half the time.

3. Pick Your Moment: Timing is Everything

When you negotiate is as important as how you negotiate.

• Wait for the written offer: Never start salary talks before you have a formal offer in hand.

• Express gratitude first: Start with appreciation—“Thank you for the offer, I’m excited about the role and the team…”

• Introduce your range: “Based on my research and experience, I was hoping for something in the range of ₹X–Y. Is that possible?”

• Take your time: It’s completely normal to ask for 24–48 hours to consider the offer. Use this time to review, reflect, and plan your next steps.

4. Use Advanced Tactics—But Stay Genuine

Negotiation isn’t about winning or losing—it’s about finding a fair deal.

• Door-in-the-face technique: Start with a higher figure than you expect, then come down to your target. This makes your actual ask seem more reasonable.

• Leverage other offers (if you have them): “I have another offer at ₹X, but I’m genuinely interested in growing with your company if we can align on compensation.”

• Be honest, not arrogant: The goal is to show you’ve done your homework—not to make threats.

5. Think Beyond Base Salary

If the company can’t budge on salary, look at the whole package.

• Ask about:

  • Joining bonuses

  • Annual performance incentives

  • Learning and certification budgets

  • Extra paid leave

  • Flexible work hours or remote options

• Real-life win: Nearly 40% of successful negotiators in India report getting perks or benefits, even when the salary itself couldn’t move.

Communication Tips & Knowing When to Walk Away

• Stay collaborative: Use “I” statements and keep the tone positive. “I value ongoing learning—could we discuss support for certifications?”

• Be ready to walk: If the offer doesn’t meet your essentials, it’s okay to politely decline. Having a backup plan or another offer gives you confidence.

• Always close with gratitude: Whether you accept or decline, thank the employer for their time and consideration. Professionalism leaves the door open for future opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Own Your Worth

Negotiating your salary is about more than money—it’s about self-respect and setting the tone for your entire professional journey. With solid research, a clear value pitch, smart timing, and a willingness to look at the full compensation picture, you’re not just asking for more—you’re showing that you know your worth.

Ready to make your next move? Build your profile on InRadius.in and approach your next negotiation with the confidence (and data) you deserve. Because in 2025, the best opportunities go to those who ask.