How to Negotiate Your Salary for a New Job

Think of it as high-stakes poker—you'll need to stack the deck. Here's how:
Start by checking a site like PayScale to find local compensation rates for people with your level of experience. According to a Salary.com analysis, nearly half of U.S. adults don't know how to find the pay range for their job; as a result, many accept whatever dough they're offered. Found the average pay? Consider that your minimum.
Next, estimate your chance of landing the position, says Michael Haselhuhn, Ph.D., an assistant professor of management at UC Riverside. If you're confident you'll get the gig, add 10 percent to your minimum, Haselhuhn suggests. It's a safe salary bump without asking for too much.

If they come back with a figure that's lower than the average, don't fold; respectfully reiterate your experience and value.
Do they seem sympathetic but still won't budge? See whether they're willing to offer extra vacation days, perhaps, or a once-a-week telecommuting option. Of course, if you're a long shot for the job or just need a paycheck, don't even think about bluffing.