06/09/2026
A strong candidate can lose momentum by negotiating compensation too early.
Compensation matters. It should be discussed.
But timing matters too.
Before pay becomes the focus, the employer needs to believe three things:
• You understand the role
• You can solve the problem
• You are the right person to hire
Interviews are a lot like sales conversations.
You don’t negotiate terms before the client is sold on the solution.
Create value first. Build trust first. Then negotiate from a stronger position.
