Negotiation can feel awkward, but it's crucial. You don't want to leave money on the table, especially if you're in a high-demand field like software engineering. Based on industry standards, aiming for a salary 10-20% above your current or expected range isn’t uncommon. Research what peers in similar roles are earning—tools like Glassdoor or Levels.fyi can help with this.

You have leverage if you’re considering multiple offers or if you have unique skills in tech stacks the company desperately needs. But be careful—choosing to seek too high of a number might backfire and derail the whole process. Balance is key. Sometimes, the overall benefits package might outweigh a slightly lower salary. Consider equity, remote work, or learning opportunities as part of your deal.