Negotiating can be uncomfortable, sometimes risky and often unsatisfying. The skill of negotiating is a learned skill and to become an expert you must understand the basic components. Research is the first basic component of successful negotiating. First,gather as much factual information as you can to support the case you would like to make. Be sure to know exactly what you want, and do not approximate.
Clarity improves communication, which is necessary for effective negotiating.
Second, practice what you plan to communicate to your prospective employer. Practice does make perfect, and the mistakes made in practice will in most cases not be made during the actual negotiation. Third, the initial communication of interest in the job position and the organization is important. This will allow room for negotiating points in the job position. Be prepared to defend your proposal.