Never Name the First Number

When asked your salary expectations, deflect to research: "Based on my research for this role and my experience, I'm looking in the range of X to Y." Anchor high but defensible.

Know Your Market Rate

Use the Mzansi Insider salary benchmarks, PayScale, and OfferZen's annual report. Walk in with a number backed by data, not hope.

"The candidate who says 'I'd like to discuss the package' almost always ends up better paid than the one who says 'that sounds fine, thank you.'"

The New-Offer Script

"Thank you, I'm excited about the role. The offer is a little below what I was expecting given my experience with [specific skill]. Is there flexibility to move the base to R[X]?" Then stop talking. Silence does the work.

Negotiating a Raise

Build the case before the conversation: document your wins, tie them to revenue or cost savings, and book a dedicated meeting rather than ambushing your manager. Frame it as "I'd like to align my package with the value I'm delivering."

Red Lines

Never bluff a competing offer you don't have, never make it personal, and never accept on the spot if you need time — "Can I come back to you tomorrow morning?" is always acceptable.