# How to Negotiate a Higher Salary: A Practical Guide

> Most people never negotiate their salary. Those who do typically earn significantly more over their careers. Here is how to do it effectively.

*Section: Business — By Marcus Vale (Business & Markets Editor) — Published October 13, 2025 — 1 min read*

Canonical URL: https://dailyjunction.org/business/how-to-negotiate-higher-salary
Tags: salary negotiation, careers, employment, pay, professional development

## Key takeaways

- Salary negotiation is expected by most employers — not doing it leaves money on the table
- Anchoring: the first number in a negotiation has disproportionate influence on the outcome
- Research market rates before any negotiation
- The best time to negotiate is when you have a competing offer or after a significant achievement

## Why most people do not negotiate

Research consistently shows that the majority of workers accept the first salary offer they receive. The most common reasons are: fear of seeming greedy, uncertainty about market rate, and discomfort with the conversation itself. These are understandable but costly. Studies estimate that someone who negotiates their starting salary and achieves a modest 10% uplift could be worth hundreds of thousands of pounds more over their working life.

## The preparation

Before any negotiation, you need three things: a target figure, a walk-away figure, and evidence. Your target figure should be based on market data from Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, Reed Salary Guide and sector surveys. Your evidence means specific, quantified achievements that justify the figure.

## The conversation

Whoever gives the first number in a negotiation creates an anchor that influences the final outcome. If you can reasonably give the first number, do so — anchor high within a credible range. When you receive an offer, it is almost always acceptable to say: that is helpful, I need a couple of days to consider this. Then make your case: based on my research and experience, I was expecting something in the range of X to Y.

## Frequently asked questions

### Does this apply to small businesses?

The principles apply broadly, though scale and resources vary. We note where SME-specific considerations differ.

### Where can I get further guidance?

Professional advisers should be consulted for decisions specific to your situation. This article provides general information only.

## Sources

- [Financial Times](https://www.ft.com)
- [The Economist](https://www.economist.com)
- [Harvard Business Review](https://hbr.org)

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