The Setup Happens Before the Offer
How you present yourself throughout the entire interview process shapes the number they put on the offer. A candidate who walks in with confidence, tells compelling stories, and clearly communicates their value gives the hiring team a reason to come in strong. A candidate who seems uncertain of their value makes it easy to low-ball.
When They Ask About Salary Expectations
If they ask early in the process, it's okay to give a range while noting that you'd want to understand the full scope of the role before settling on a number. Do your research first — know what the market pays for this role in this industry and location. Don't guess. Know.
Let Your Stories Do the Work
Every time you tell a story about impact — time saved, problems solved, results delivered — you're making the case for your value without being explicit about it. By the time the offer comes, they already have a sense of what you're worth. Your Brag Bank is your negotiation prep.
You're Allowed to Negotiate
This bears repeating because so many people — especially women and people earlier in their careers — accept the first number. The first offer is rarely the final offer. A calm, confident counter is almost always welcome. Know your number. Ask for it.
The Salary Confidence Script is inside the The Pep Kit — a full worksheet to help you know your number and say it out loud.