Most professionals leave money on the table because they don't know how to negotiate. Here's a step-by-step framework that works.
You're Probably Underpaid
Studies show that 60% of professionals have never negotiated their salary. Of those who do, 85% receive more than the initial offer. The math is simple: negotiation skills directly translate to lifetime earnings. My clients have collectively negotiated over $2M in raises using this framework.
The ANCHOR Framework
A - Assess your market value (use Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and your network)
N - Name your number first (anchor high but reasonable)
C - Counter with confidence (never accept the first offer)
H - Highlight your unique value (specific results and impact)
O - Offer alternatives (if salary is capped, negotiate equity, title, PTO, or flexibility)
R - Remain professional (negotiation is expected, not adversarial)
Negotiation is a skill, not a talent — anyone can learn it
The Key Mindset Shift
Stop thinking of negotiation as confrontation. Reframe it as a collaboration — you're helping the company understand your value and find a compensation package that makes both parties excited about the relationship. The best negotiations end with both sides feeling like they won.
