How to Research Salary Ranges Before You Negotiate

Negotiating without data is negotiating blind. A bit of research beforehand gives you a realistic, defensible number to work from.

Use multiple sources

• Salary comparison websites for your role, region, and experience level
• Government labour market data where available
• Conversations with people in similar roles, if you're comfortable

Account for your specific situation

Location, company size, and years of experience all shift the range — a national average is a starting point, not a target.

Consider total compensation, not just base pay

Benefits, bonuses, vacation, and flexibility all have real value beyond the salary number.

Write down your range before the conversation

Having a minimum, target, and stretch number in mind keeps you steady when the topic actually comes up.