Once you have compiled your research and documentation, it's time to map out a strategy. Just like any presentation or report you'd give to others on behalf of your company, you must prepare just as thoroughly when negotiating for yourself. It's important to have a rationale that you can easily support with your research for each request you make. You shouldn't assume that all your requests will be instantly agreed upon, and you should expect counteroffers to your requests. With this in mind, being flexible will greatly enhance your effort to get what you want.
Every company is different, and the flexibility of each can range tremendously.
Your research supporting your requests should take this important factor into account. As you build your strategy, don't forget to look beyond mere money. Although compensation is important, it's often other factors that will determine whether or not you end up being satisfied with your work. Base salary, bonuses, and stock options may be the major focus of your negotiations, but benefits such as vacation time, paid and unpaid personal leave, medical, dental, daycare, fitness center, telecommuting, relocation costs, housing subsidies, training, education, and other work-related conditions are all open for negotiation. When you have these two lists in place, it's time to begin negotiating.