The Remote Worker's Guide to Salary Negotiation

Remote work opens global opportunities—and global pay scales. Here's how to negotiate like a pro.

Why Remote Workers Have Leverage

1. Companies save on office costs - they can afford to pay more
2. Global talent pool - you're competing internationally
3. Location independence - you can work for SF companies from anywhere

Research Before You Negotiate

1. Use Multiple Salary Data Sources

• Levels.fyi (tech roles)
• RemoteGrid salary data
• LinkedIn Salary Insights
• Glassdoor
• Payscale

2. Understand Geographic Adjustments

Some companies pay based on:

• Your location (most common)
• Company HQ location (rare but exists)
• National averages
• No adjustment (pure global rates)

3. Know Your Worth

Calculate your value based on:

• Years of experience
• Specific skills
• Industry demand
• Company stage/funding

The Negotiation Process

Step 1: Never Give a Number First

Recruiter: "What's your expected salary?"
You: "I'm focused on finding the right role. What's the budgeted range for this position?"

Step 2: When Pressed, Give a Range

Use this formula:

• Bottom: 10% above what you want
• Top: 30% above what you want

Example: If you want $100k, say "$110k - $130k"

Step 3: Get the Initial Offer

Let them make the first offer. It's often higher than you'd ask for.

Step 4: Always Negotiate (Politely)

Even if the offer is good:

"Thank you for the offer. I'm excited about the role. Based on my research and experience with [specific skill], I was expecting something closer to [10-20% higher]. Is there flexibility in the budget?"

Step 5: Negotiate Total Compensation

Don't just focus on base salary:

• Equity/stock options
• Signing bonus
• Performance bonus
• Professional development budget
• Home office stipend
• Better PTO
• Flexible hours

Scripts That Work

For Higher Base Salary

"I've received another offer at $X. I prefer your company because [genuine reason]. Can you match that number?"

For Equity

"The base salary works, but I'm betting on the company's growth. Can we discuss increasing the equity component?"

For Better Terms

"Can we include a 6-month performance review with potential for adjustment based on impact?"

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Accepting immediately - always take 24-48 hours
2. Only negotiating salary - total comp matters more
3. Being aggressive - stay collaborative
4. Not getting it in writing - verify everything in the offer letter
5. Burning bridges - stay professional even if declining

The Remote Work Premium

Many companies now offer location-based pay. Push for:

• National averages vs local rates
• Company HQ rates if you're highly skilled
• Global rates if you're working for international companies

When to Walk Away

If they:

• Refuse to share salary range
• Lowball significantly (30%+ below market)
• Get defensive about negotiation
• Change terms after verbal agreement

After You Agree

Get in writing:

• Base salary
• Equity details
• Bonus structure
• Benefits
• Start date
• Remote work terms

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