In a developer lemon market developers are hired at the lowest possible cost as their value can't be assessed in advance. Turning this thinking around in a empl

In a developer lemon market developers are hired at the lowest possible cost as their value can't be assessed in advance. Turning this thinking around in a employer lemon market employers are selected by offered salary as that is the only solid proof-able property that distinguishes them. Two strong diametrical forces are here in play focusing the discussion on salary to the detriment of considering the total package for both sides. Lemon markets exist for one-time transactions between foreign parties. Public records of companies and potential employees change this to a degree. A big name company may be able to hire at lower cost as it is on record it is not a total disaster. A public record can help to put a floor under the salary one is being offered. From a developer perspective one can - market skills in a way to decrease hiring risk (affecting offered min salary) - market skills that are truly needed (affecting considered max salary) - research the company (allowing one to reduce demanded salary e.g. huge solid growth etc.) As always the power in negotiation is with the party that can afford to say no.