Setting your salary range to negotiate a job offer is like preparing for a big game: you need to know the rules, understand your strengths, and have a game plan.

You need a realistic and ambitious salary range as part of your game plan.

As we discussed earlier, you need to do some homework and check different platforms and sources to see what other people are getting paid for the same role.

You’ll get a good idea of the typical salary range and this will give you a solid starting point.

Now, let’s talk about you.

What makes you special?

Do you have any unique skills or achievements?

Maybe you’ve worked with a rare technology or led successful projects. These things can bump up your value.

Try to make a list of your standout skills and experiences.

Next, think about what you need and what you want.

1. What’s the minimum salary you need to cover your expenses and live comfortably?

2. What’s the salary that would make you feel valued and excited to go to work?

Keep these numbers in mind.

After gathering all this information, it’s time to set your salary range.

Your range should have a lower end that covers your needs and an upper end that’s ambitious but realistic based on your research and your unique value.

Importance of Aiming High but Staying Reasonable

When you aim high, you show confidence in your skills and worth and by now you have learned that employers often expect candidates to negotiate. But, remember, it’s important to stay reasonable.

If you ask for a salary that’s way out of the ballpark, it might hurt your chances.

When you aim high but stay reasonable, you open the door for a productive negotiation.

For example, if the employer can’t meet your highest number, they might still offer something better than their initial offer.

Let’s say you’ve found that the typical salary for your role is $70,000 to $90,000.

If you think your skills and experience put you on the higher end, you might set your range from $85,000 to $95,000.

This way, you’re aiming high but still within a realistic range based on the market and your value.