Here's how you can secure a higher starting salary without coming across as greedy or entitled.

"Negotiate with Confidence" Level up your salary game with data-driven insights! Researching industry benchmarks for your position and location equips you with powerful ammunition. Knowing your market value allows you to confidently articulate your worth and negotiate from a position of strength. This preparation showcases your professionalism and commitment to a win-win outcome for both you and the company.

When doing this research, also look at company size and years of experience, as well as whether or not you have any additional skill sets or certifications that might justify asking for a higher amount.

While it is important to negotiate, simultaneously be prepared to walk away if the offer package doesn't meet minimum requirements. It is also essential to know your worth and be willing to stand by it. This could be your skills, work-experience & educational qualifications that make you a strong candidate. Just to showcase how your unique abilities can benefit the company. Considering negotiating a higher starting salary is a common and important part of the job application process, one should maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the negotiation process.

From personal experience, when potential employers ask for my salary expectations, I never give out a number first. Instead, I ask what the salary range is as this provides really important insight into where you should fit in that range. If the range is too low, I let the recruiter or hiring manager know right away so neither party wastes their time. If I am comfortable with the range, I let them know that I can work within that range, but, given my experience level, I would expect to be on the lower, middle or higher end of the range.

To effectively express enthusiasm, start by highlighting specific aspects of the role and company that excite you. Mention any projects, company values, or team dynamics that align with your professional interests and goals. During the conversation, maintain positive body language, such as smiling and maintaining eye contact, to reinforce your enthusiasm. Use phrases like, "I am particularly excited about..." or "I see a great opportunity to contribute to..." to convey your genuine interest. Additionally, balance your enthusiasm with a well-researched rationale for your salary expectations. This shows that while you are passionate about the role, you are also informed and thoughtful about your compensation.

I always recommend role playing the other side! While this seems counter-intuitive, it can be really helpful to understand how a certain question or answer could be interpreted by a potential employer.