Quick tips

• Never say yes on the spot. Thank them, ask for the offer in writing and take a day or two. It's normal and expected.
• Have a researched number. A specific figure based on what similar roles pay anchors the talk better than "whatever is fair".
• Trade when salary is capped. Signing bonuses, vacation and learning budgets often come from a different budget than salary.
• One clear ask with a reason. "A signing bonus would help me cover the switch" is easy to say yes to. A long list of demands isn't.
• Get the final deal in writing. What you agree on a call can go missing from the contract unless it's written down.