Negotiation Preparation Checklist Builder

Research Tasks: (1) Research the market rate for the role in this city and industry using at least two sources — knowing the range gives your ask objective credibility. (2) Find out the company’s recent financial performance and hiring volume — a company that is growing fast has more budget flexibility than one in a hiring freeze. (3) Identify your counterpart’s decision-making authority — knowing whether they can approve a number on the spot changes how you pace the conversation. (4) Research the benefits package norms in this industry so you can evaluate the full compensation, not just base salary. (5) Find out when the budget cycle resets — timing your ask before the new fiscal year can significantly increase the likelihood of approval. Clarity Questions: (1) What is my walk-away number — the minimum I will accept before declining? (2) Which non-salary elements (bonus, equity, remote work, PTO) matter most to me if the base cannot move? (3) What is my BATNA — what happens if I walk away from this offer today? Documentation: (1) A one-page summary of your key achievements and market rate data to reference if asked to justify your ask. (2) A written record of any verbal commitments made during the interview process regarding compensation expectations.